The Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that his country will not resort to force or intimidation but will "adopt a firm stance" amid clashes near the islands in the South China Sea, which is a focal point of regional dispute with China.

Bloomberg News reported that Marcos told soldiers at the Western Command in Palawan province, the closest Philippine land to the disputed Spratly Islands, "We are not seeking to ignite wars."

He added: "Regarding the defense of our country, we are committed to our Filipino nature where we wish to settle our differences peacefully."

It is noted that on June 17, officials from the Chinese coast guard boarded Philippine rubber boats conducting a resupply mission at the Thomas Shoal military outpost.

Manila accused Chinese authorities of confiscating weapons, puncturing boats, and colliding with ships, leading to a Filipino losing his thumb.