Choosing the Path That Leads to Prosperity The world is at a crossroads, with the United States and China locked in an escalating contest for global dominance. What began as a trade dispute has grown into a strategic rivalry that reaches deep into military alliances, technological standards, and the global economy. This ongoing conflict has forced smaller nations—like the Philippines—into a delicate balancing act.
Tariffs, Tensions, and the New Global Order
The trade war between the US and China, initially framed around tariffs and intellectual property rights, has become a full-spectrum confrontation. Each side seeks to pull others into its orbit, with pressure applied through aid, defense deals, infrastructure loans, and diplomatic influence. But is this conflict a zero-sum game, or is there room for a win-win scenario? That remains to be seen.
What is clear is that for nations like the Philippines, this is not a fight worth joining. As the African proverb goes, “When elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” In this case, the Philippines—neither an elephant nor even a lion—is at risk of being trampled underfoot.
A Bit Player in a Superpower Struggle
Taking sides in this trade war may seem like a geopolitical necessity, but for a country striving for economic development and social stability, it offers little benefit. The Philippines is better served by maintaining strategic autonomy and focusing on its long-term goals rather than being drawn into a conflict between giants.
The real question we must ask is: Who is truly helping us achieve our national aspirations? Who offers a partnership that promotes growth, rather than one that exploits vulnerability?
True Friendship: War Profiteers vs. Economic Partners
Let us set aside, for a moment, the emotionally charged issue of territorial disputes in the South China Sea. While sovereignty is undeniably important, it should not obscure another vital issue: Who supports our long-term development in meaningful ways?
Consider this: the Philippines recently agreed to spend $5.58 billion on F-16 fighter jets—aircraft that the US military has already begun to phase out. While this may bolster military capacity in theory, it does little to create jobs, spur innovation, or build infrastructure. In contrast, China’s proposals—while not without their own geopolitical strings—often involve large-scale infrastructure investments, trade agreements, and joint industrial ventures.
Arms Dealers: Friends or Merchants of Chaos?
There’s a crucial distinction between a partner who empowers you to grow and one who sells you weapons. A so-called ally who deals in arms may, intentionally or not, trap you in unwinnable conflicts. These deals benefit the arms industry but drain public coffers, deepen regional tensions, and foster dependency. History has shown that such relationships often lead to instability, not security.
Is that truly the mark of a friend?
Business Partners: The Path to Prosperity
On the other hand, economic cooperation builds nations. A friend who engages in mutual trade, invests in local industries, develops infrastructure, and encourages innovation offers a far more sustainable path forward. Such partnerships generate employment, transfer knowledge, and lay the foundation for national resilience.
The Philippines needs this kind of partnership—one that is rooted not in fear and militarism, but in opportunity and shared success.
The Bigger Question: Who Builds With Us?
In navigating these complex international waters, the Philippines must ask a fundamental question: “Who is truly helping us grow?” Loyalty should not be blind. It must be measured against tangible benefits, national dignity, and the ability to chart our own course.
We cannot afford to be a pawn in a game where neither player has our best interests at heart. The choice should not be about siding with the US or China. The choice should be about choosing what kind of future we want—and who is willing to build it with us.
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