President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.has initiated diplomatic efforts to improve the Philippines' relationship with China following the July 20 confrontation between Philippine Navy personnel and Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) teams near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal.

The incident, which resulted in injuries to two Filipino soldiers, prompted Marcos to summon Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan to Malacañang for a meeting lasting approximately an hour and 20 minutes.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President emphasized the need to prevent future incidents and reset bilateral relations toward a more cooperative engagement.While details of the discussions remain undisclosed, Castro noted that the Chinese ambassador appeared receptive to Marcos' message.The meeting comes amid ongoing disputes between the two nations, with Manila planning to file a diplomatic protest against China's actions.Foreign Secretary Ma.Theresa Lazaro also conveyed Manila's strong protest during a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The incident highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the West Philippine Sea, where maritime disputes and diplomatic tensions continue to shape regional relations.