The Philippines is actively pursuing the expansion of its informal security grouping, known as the "Squad," to include India and South Korea, aiming to bolster collective deterrence against China's increasingly assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative, spearheaded by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), comes amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea, where Beijing's expansive territorial claims continue to clash with the sovereignty of its neighbors.
General Romeo Brawner Jr., the Chief of Staff of the AFP, articulated this strategic objective during his address at the Raisina Dialogue, a prominent security forum held in New Delhi in March 2025. His remarks underscore Manila's growing concern over Beijing's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea, a vital global trade route through which an estimated $3 trillion in commerce transits annually.
The current "Squad" comprises Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States. These nations have already engaged in joint maritime cooperative activities within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea, demonstrating a commitment to regional stability and the upholding of international law.
General Brawner emphasized the rationale behind seeking to broaden this coalition. "Together with Japan and our partners, we are trying to expand the Squad to include India and probably South Korea," he stated during a panel discussion that featured senior military figures from the existing Squad nations and India.
He further elaborated on the strategic alignment with India, stating unequivocally, "We find commonality with India because we have a common enemy. And I’m not afraid to say that China is our common enemy. So, it’s important that we collaborate together, maybe exchange intelligence."
China's claims over almost the entire South China Sea have been a persistent source of regional friction. Despite a 2016 ruling by an international tribunal that invalidated Beijing's sweeping claims, China has refused to recognize the decision and continues to assert its dominance. This assertion has manifested in aggressive actions by the China Coast Guard and other Chinese vessels, including the ramming and obstruction of Philippine vessels, the use of water cannons, and the harassment of Filipino fishing crews within their own waters. Furthermore, China's actions have extended to obstructing oil and gas exploration activities in the EEZs of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
In response to these challenges, the Philippines is actively enhancing its defense capabilities and strengthening its alliances and partnerships. General Brawner highlighted that collaboration with the existing Squad partners includes intelligence sharing, as well as joint military exercises and operations aimed at improving interoperability and collective security.
The potential inclusion of India and South Korea would significantly amplify the strategic weight of the grouping. India, with its substantial military capabilities and growing strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific, shares concerns about China's increasing influence. South Korea, a key U.S. ally with a modern and well-equipped military, also has vested interests in maintaining regional stability and freedom of navigation in the East and South China Seas.
While the expansion of the "Squad" is still in its initial stages, General Brawner's public remarks signal a clear intent by the Philippines to forge a stronger, more inclusive security architecture in the Indo-Pacific to effectively address the shared challenges posed by China's assertive behavior. The development will be closely watched by regional actors and international observers as it unfolds.
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