Graphic
of American and Chinese flags superimposed. Photo:
www.nationofchange.org
iven
the United States’ diminished influence in world affairs and China’s
growing power, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, was it wise for
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte to choose China over the U.S. as
the Philippines’ strategic partner? Given China’s rapidly rising star,
it would seem Duterte has made a wise choice. As many Western countries
are now realizing, the U.S. no longer seems to be a reliable ally.
In previous decades America could be relied on to champion the values of
liberal democracy, individual rights, and individual freedoms. Today
however, the country is divided, with serious problems of its own, and
an inconsistent foreign policy that depends on which political party is
in power.
U.S. President Donald Trump has just recently angered his allies by
imposing tariffs on many of their imports, while cozying up to Vladimir
Putin and Russia. Trump now wants Russia allowed back into the G7—a
grouping of countries that was once known as the G8 before Russia was
expelled after it invaded parts of the Ukrane.
But even before Trump, Filipinos experienced America’s inaction when it
did nothing during the months-long standoff between the Philippines and
China on Scarborough Shoal. And despite repeated warnings from his
admirals, then President Barack Obama did nothing to impede the Chinese
as they converted one Spratly island after another into fortified
military outposts.
Given America’s diminished role as a dependable ally, is it wise for the
Philippines to choose China as its new primary benefactor? We don’t
think so.
China has significant problems as well. It is a Communist state where
the ruling Communist Party controls everything. There is no transparency
and Chinese citizens have little to no input on how their government
operates. Individual rights in China can be taken away at a moment’s
notice.
Given the flaws of both the U.S. and China, we believe the Philippines
has a better option—a third option. Our country should maintain cordial
relations with both countries, making clear to the U.S. and China that
we don’t favor one over the other.
That way, we set our own destiny and make the most of our relationship
with both. While we note above that America appears to be in decline, it
is still a super power and will remain so for decades to come. China on
the other hand is rising but will take decades before it surpasses the
U.S.
This gives the Philippines a window of opportunity to forge its own way
while remaining a true friend to both countries. Duterte would be wise
to not push America away or become too close to China. Instead, we
should deal with both equally at arms-length, and benefit from the
advantage that friendship with both countries brings.
Published 6/9/2018 |