China’s latest buildup at Second Thomas Shoal has triggered sharp protests from the Philippines and accelerated defence cooperation with Australia.

At a Glance

• Philippines protested China’s deployment of ships, militia, helicopter, and drone near the BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal.
• A Chinese vessel approached within 50 metres of the grounded Philippine ship before Filipino forces intervened.
• Australia reaffirmed its support during high-level defence talks in Manila.
• A broader defence pact is planned for 2026, enhancing drills and infrastructure at five Philippine sites.

Rising Tensions at Second Thomas Shoal

In late August 2025, contention flared at the Second Thomas Shoal — a key maritime flashpoint in the South China Sea. Chinese coast guard and militia vessels, backed by aerial assets, swarmed near the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded Philippine naval ship that serves as a de facto outpost of Manila’s presence at Ayungin Shoal. The Philippines condemned these incursions as violations of international law and described the build-up as alarming and aggressive.

A Chinese vessel came within just 50 meters of the Sierra Madre, prompting Filipino personnel to deploy boat teams to maintain distance. China’s coast guard, however, accused Manila of staging provocations and circulated video footage they claim showed unsafe manoeuvres by Philippine vessels. These developments follow a recent collision between two Chinese ships at Scarborough Shoal, which added urgency to regional concerns.

Watch now: Australian and Philippine defence chiefs meet as disputes simmer over South China Sea · YouTube

Australia Steps Up Defense Cooperation

During these heightened tensions, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles visited Manila and emphasized shared commitment to upholding a rules-based international order. He urged against the use of “power and might” to resolve maritime disputes, delivering a veiled warning to Beijing.

The visit coincided with the largest-ever joint Philippine–Australian military exercises—code-named ALON (“Wave”)—featuring live-fire drills and amphibious training, with participation from Canada as well.

Roadmap to a New Defense Agreement

In a signal of deepening strategic ties, the two countries confirmed plans for a renewed defense agreement to be signed in 2026. The pact is expected to offer structured support for:

• More frequent joint military drills
• Defense infrastructure development at five sites across the Philippines
• Enhanced interoperability and collective deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region

These developments underscore growing cooperation amid shared concerns over China’s maritime posture.

Sources

AP News
Reuters
The Australian