This, notwithstanding recent vows made by Philippines and China to give dialogue a chance in resolving their conflict over the SCS that is known in the Philippines as West Philippine Sea.

Currently in Vietnam for a two-day state visit, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. signed two agreements with Vietnam to set up a communications hotline and boost coastguard cooperation.

“The MoU (memorandum of understanding) on maritime cooperation is aimed at strengthening the understanding, mutual trust and confidence between the two countries,” Marcos said in a statement.

“We are firm in defending our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction against any provocations. But at the same time, we are also seeking to address these issues with China through peaceful dialogue and consultations as two equal sovereign state,” added Marcos.

Philippines and Vietnam are also expected to expand bilateral trade from US$ 7 billion to US$ 10 billion (approximately PhP563.38 billion.)

Marcos held separate meetings with Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and Vietnamese Prime Minister Minh Chinh in Hanoi on the second day of his visit.

“The Philippines is committed to enhancing and fortifying our economic, trade and investment ties with Vietnam. Our objective is to expand our bilateral trade which stands at about US$ 7 billion today, to expand that to US$10 billion by exploring untapped resources,” Marcos said in a meeting with Chinh.