Clearly showing their weak hand

The United Nations arbitral tribunal has ordered China to defend its territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea by submitting evidence by the end of the year. But China was quick to give its response saying it will not participate in the arbitration proceedings. Not surprising actually. China's sweeping claims over islands and small pockets of land in the West Philippine Sea are purely based on bullying and intimidation, with so called "historical" claims which they want accepted by everyone without question.

China's refusal to participate in the proceedings clearly shows how weak their hand is in this high-stakes game. If they had all the proof clearly showing that the whole ocean is theirs, they would have submitted them right away. It would be a lot easier for everyone if China is clearly dealing with the situation in a manner that fully benefits them. It patrols the ocean with its ships, watch over the skies with its planes, and entice everyone with its money. Gunboat diplomacy at its best, or worst.

According to the tribunal, it will continue hearing the case even with China's refusal to participate. What I really wonder is if China is not participating, will whatever decision the tribunal come up with be binding to everyone? Will it be enforced by the UN? All this we will have to wait and see as we wait for China to submit its proof, if there is any, by the end of the year.

It is good to know that many countries support our efforts to resolve the matter peacefully, and legally. It is really the only way to go. And while the Palace respects China's decision not to participate, the UN has to set a precedent. One that may serve as a template for future maritime disputes. This is why countries with similar territorial disputes with China are watching developments on our case closely, with Vietnam seriously mulling filing a case of its own.

In any legal case, if a party refuses to go to court, the case is usually decided in favor of the participating party. If China continues to ignore the arbitration, what good is their being a member, a permanent member of the security council in fact, of the United Nations? They are also a signatory to UNCLOS, but seem to be the only one violating it. I really cannot grasp China's thinking on this, and the way we are trying to settle it in the best way possible. It really only affirms that its military and economic might has made them think and act as the biggest bully on this planet. But like they say, there is always a bigger fish.

Let's hope these fish remain our friends.