The presentation of a letter of credence at the Malacañang Palace has brought about a subtle change in the tense Sino-Filipino relations. Facing the newly appointed Chinese ambassador, Marcos showed an extremely rare attitude, even speaking favorably about China.

Qingquan presents the letter of credence to Marcos

Recently, China's new ambassador to the Philippines, Qingquan, officially took office and formally presented the letter of credence to Philippine President Marcos at the Malacañang Palace. During the meeting, Qingquan stated that based on practical needs, both countries should work together to maintain the friendly development of Sino-Filipino relations. This statement not only conveys the intention of cooperation but also subtly criticizes the previous provocative actions of the Philippines.

What is more surprising is Marcos' response. This president, who had previously taken a hard stance against China and frequently created incidents in the South China Sea, changed his tone towards China on the spot, openly stating, "China is the most important friend and partner of the Philippines," and made a significant statement, "Disputes should be an exception, not the norm, in Sino-Filippine relations."

It is worth noting that the Philippines had been holding frequent joint military exercises with the United States, opening up military bases for external forces, and collaborating with over 30 countries to "pressure" the South China Sea. Now, suddenly releasing signals of easing tensions is the most obvious diplomatic shift in recent years, which is indeed surprising.

Newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Qingquan (center)

However, this "ice-breaking interaction" is not an isolated event. Just a few days before the letter of credence was presented, the law enforcement departments of China and the Philippines completed an important cooperation, jointly repatriating a wanted person from China. This practical achievement proves that even if there are differences at the political level, the two countries still have smooth channels for cooperation in non-traditional security areas, providing a realistic interpretation for Marcos' "exception theory."

However, it is worth noting that although Marcos said these words, it does not represent a complete change in the Philippines' foreign policy, nor does it prove that the Philippines will be cautious about the South China Sea issue in the future. Considering the recent domestic and international situation, Marcos' "softened attitude" is not a sudden whim, but a pragmatic choice forced by reality.

Foreign Minister of the Philippines, Lazaro and Qingquan

Because at the same time when Marcos made the statement that "disputes are exceptions, not the norm," several Philippine aircraft illegally entered Huangyan Island without the approval of the Chinese government, and the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army issued a notice. For Marcos, saying a few kind words is not difficult, and it won't cost him anything, and maybe even achieve his own small agenda.

Currently, Marcos faces very serious domestic political pressure. On one hand, economic development has stalled, and the funds promised by the United States have not arrived in time, causing the Sino-Filipino cooperation to stagnate. On the other hand, floods caused by typhoons have not only severely damaged the national economy but also sparked public dissatisfaction and protests against him.

Continuous protests in the Philippines

Additionally, after Marcos came into power, he once tried to "bind with the US" to counterbalance China's influence. However, recently, the US's attitude after making erroneous remarks on Taiwan has made him very doubtful about the US's commitment. In this situation, although his desire to confront China hasn't changed, at least on the surface, Marcos will not say anything that harms his image.

Saying a few "soft words" can not only calm the protesting citizens at home, show a friendly image towards China, but also avoid trouble for the US. At the crucial moment of Sino-US cooperation, Trump may not care about the Philippines' affairs. Although China firmly believes that the fundamental way out of Sino-Filipino relations is "win-win cooperation," don't think that Marcos' few kind words will make China compromise on fundamental issues.

Original: toutiao.com/article/7582904980630143497/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author.