The Philippines’ assertive stance on South China Sea disputes, particularly its focus on the 2016 arbitration ruling, is creating friction within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr recently reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to the ruling, planning commemorations for its 10th anniversary. However, this approach diverges from the broader trend within Asean, which generally favors a more cautious and consensus-based approach to managing tensions with China. Critics argue the Philippines’ actions risk undermining Asean’s role as a central mediator in the region. The country’s continued emphasis on the ruling is not seen as conducive to resolving the ongoing territorial disputes. This divergence in strategy raises concerns about the future of regional cooperation and stability in the South China Sea.