FROM a position paper by the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute (ACPSSI), written by its president Herman Tiu Laurel, we gather a comprehensive narrative that pictures President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. as sincere enough in de-escalating the tension in the South China Sea but that his presidential prerogatives on the matter are being subverted by his subalterns.

Titled 'Probe 'US-Gibo.' Praise Adm. Carlos,' the paper cited President Marcos himself set the foundation for the 'new model' arrangement between the Philippines and Chinese maritime security authorities 'to peacefully manage the situation in the Ayungin Shoal pertaining to the rotation and resupply (RORE) missions to the BRP Sierra Madre and related issues. The reference was to the President's call made in December 2023 for a 'paradigm shift in the West Philippine Sea dispute.'