India and the Philippines Conduct First-Ever Joint Patrols in the South China Sea Amid Growing Maritime Tensions
As President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. headed to New Delhi for a high-level visit, something historic was quietly unfolding at sea. For the first time, Indian Navy warships have joined their Philippine counterparts in joint patrols through the tense and disputed waters of the South China Sea.
This two-day naval operation, which began on Sunday, includes three Indian naval vessels—among them, the powerful guided missile destroyer INS Delhi. Their presence in the region marks a significant moment in the growing defense partnership between the two democratic nations.
Lieutenant Colonel John Paul Salgado of the Philippine military described the operation as ongoing, noting that the ships are currently engaged in a “replenishment at sea” activity—an essential practice in sustaining long-range maritime missions.
This coordinated move is far from symbolic. It sends a message of unity and shared resolve, especially at a time when the Philippines has been deepening security ties with several allies, including India, following a series of maritime confrontations with China.
Beijing continues to lay sweeping claims over nearly the entire South China Sea—a stance that was invalidated by a 2016 international ruling. Yet the provocations have not ceased.
Just before boarding his flight to India, President Marcos emphasized the importance of standing by international maritime law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which grants nations exclusive economic rights up to 200 nautical miles from their coasts.
His visit to India is expected to result in a number of agreements, not only in defense but also in law, culture, and technology. But experts believe defense cooperation will be at the heart of the discussions. It’s worth noting that the Philippines has already acquired BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles from India—a deal that cemented trust and strategic alignment between the two nations.
India itself has faced growing tensions with China, notably in the Himalayas, and is part of the Quad alliance, alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia. While Beijing has accused the Quad of being a containment strategy, countries like the Philippines and India see it as a stabilizing force in a rapidly shifting geopolitical environment.
This joint patrol isn’t just about ships sailing through contested waters—it’s about shared principles, mutual respect, and a deepening commitment to regional peace and international law.