Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam Explore Formal Maritime Security Triangle

Reports emerged from multiple outlets that Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are actively exploring a trilateral maritime security framework for the South China Sea. The three nations — each facing distinct but overlapping challenges from Chinese maritime assertiveness — are advancing cooperation on coast guard coordination, joint patrols, legal frameworks under UNCLOS, and information sharing. The framework builds on an Indonesia-Vietnam EEZ demarcation agreement, a 2025 Indonesia-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and Philippines-Vietnam maritime law enforcement accords. Forums such as the ASEAN Coast Guard Forum, initiated by Indonesia and hosted by the Philippines in 2024, provide institutional backbone for the emerging triangle.