Gov’t ‘strongly opposed’ to China’s ongoing reclamation in West PH Sea

From Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative said on its website (
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Malacañang on Friday reiterated that it will continue oppose and legally challenge reclamation work done within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The statement came after new satellite images revealed the extent of Chinese reclamation activities in Panganiban Reef (Mischief Reef), which is within the EEZ of the Philippines and a disputed area of West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

“The government is strongly opposed to any reclamation work being done in disputed areas of the West Philippine Sea,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a text message to media.

“In fact, Foreign Affairs immediately filed a diplomatic protest when it learned of the work at the first instance,” she added.

Echoing earlier statements, she emphasized that government will pursue “legal and diplomatic tracks as grounded in President (Benigno) Aquino’s policy of a peaceful and rules-based approach to resolving the maritime disputes.”