In the azure waters of the South China Sea, where geopolitical tensions run as deep as the ocean itself, a voice of reason emerges from an unexpected quarter.

Benjie Oliva, a mayoral hopeful from the Philippine town of Catigbian, has called for continued dialogue between Manila and Beijing to resolve the long-standing dispute over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Speaking on a local radio programme, Mr. Oliva advocated for peaceful resolution through established United Nations mechanisms.

His stance comes at a time when skirmishes between Chinese and Filipino personnel in key areas of the WPS have reignited concerns over regional stability.

The conflict stems from China’s expansive “nine-dash line” claim, which encompasses nearly the entire South China Sea, including areas the Philippines considers its sovereign territory.

Manila’s position is bolstered by a 2016 ruling from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which invalidated Beijing’s sweeping maritime claims.

Yet, as Mr. Oliva points out, the ruling has done little to deter Chinese assertiveness in the region. Filipino fishermen continue to face challenges accessing their traditional fishing grounds, raising alarm bells over potential impacts on food security.

While some hawks advocate for a more confrontational approach, Mr. Oliva’s call for dialogue reflects a growing recognition that military posturing alone is unlikely to resolve the complex web of competing claims in the South China Sea.

As tensions simmer and fishing boats become pawns in a high-stakes maritime chess game, the question remains: can diplomacy prevail where gunboat diplomacy has faltered?

In the choppy waters of the West Philippine Sea, the answer may well determine the future of regional peace and prosperity.