Upaya Politik Luar Negeri Pemerintah Filipina dalam Gugatannya Terhadap Klaim China di Laut China Selatan Tahun 2013-2016

Abstract

The conflict in the South China Sea has become a crucial issue in international relations. The territorial dispute in the South China Sea was triggered by China's claims over several maritime areas based on historical narratives and trade routes known as the Nine Dash Line. These claims overlap with almost all of the claims made by countries in the region. The Government of the Philippines, as one of the countries whose sovereignty is directly affected, responded to these claims by taking active and strategic foreign policy measures. This research aims to describe the foreign policy efforts of the Philippine Government in addressing and challenging China's claims in the South China Sea from 2013 to 2016, as well as to identify the factors behind the Philippines' legal action. This research uses Foreign Policy Theory. The method used in this research is a descriptive qualitative method using literature study techniques. Based on the results of the study, it is shown that the Philippines' foreign policy in facing China's unilateral claims in the South China Sea from 2013 to 2016 reflects a highly strategic and rational dynamic. The Philippine decision to file a case against China was part of its calculated foreign policy. The main factors driving this legal action include: violations of the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), China's rejection of bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, China's reclamation activities, and internal political pressure. The shift from bilateral to multilateral diplomacy became a crucial step in the Philippines’ approach, involving ASEAN regional forums and strengthening cooperation with the United States.