Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has warned that any Filipino soldier killed by a Chinese water cannon would be considered an “act of war,” raising concerns about potential U.S. involvement in the South China Sea conflict.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, Marcos emphasized that both Filipino servicemen and citizens should be protected, indicating that the U.S., a treaty ally, would share this stance.

The Philippines has complained about Chinese ships using water cannons against its vessels. While recent clashes have resulted in injuries, no fatalities have occurred, Fox News reported.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, also at the summit, highlighted the importance of regional alliances and peaceful dispute resolution, while meeting with Chinese defense officials to ease tensions over issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea.

Written by B.C. Begley