Philippines pushes for South China Sea Code of Conduct as Hormuz crisis highlights maritime risks

As ASEAN chair in 2026, the Philippines is accelerating negotiations with China to finalize a South China Sea Code of Conduct (COC) by the end of 2026. Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro told The Straits Times that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have driven oil prices above $100 a barrel, underscore the urgency for a binding regional maritime framework. She stressed that the COC should be legally binding under UNCLOS and serve as a "gift to the world" that prevents similar choke‑point crises.

Negotiators continue to debate core issues, including the definition of “self‑restraint,” the agreement’s geographic scope, its relationship to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and the terms of reference. The push comes amid broader ASEAN concerns over energy security and the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, highlighting the inter‑linked challenges facing Southeast Asia’s trade and stability.