DND: China’s move in WPS a ‘serious escalation of illegal activities’
This image released by Armed Forces of the Philippines shows a Chinese militia vessel, top, near Philippine coast guard vessel BRP Cabra as they approach Second Thomas Shoal, locally called Ayungin Shoal, at the disputed South China Sea on Sunday, October 22, 2023. (Armed Forces of the Philippines via AP)
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine government describes China’s latest offense in the West Philippine Sea as a “serious escalation” in a string of illegal activities within the country’s territories.
China disregarded international law, according to Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro.
“The Philippine government views the latest aggression by China as a blatant violation of international law,” said the defense chief at a Malacañang briefing.
“China has no legal right or authority to conduct law enforcement operations in our territorial waters and in our exclusive economic zone,” he emphasized.
“This is a serious escalation of the illegal activities conducted by the Chinese government in the West Philippine Sea, in complete disregard of any norm or convention of any international law,” he declared.
Teodoro said the Philippines’ top officials are seriously discussing the collision in Ayungin Shoal.
“The use of China of brute force behind disingenuous facades necessitates this course of action,” explained the defense secretary.
Teodoro said Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian has been summoned by Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to condemn China’s actions.
“Likewise, Philippine ambassador to China Jaime Florcruz has been instructed to convey the same (message) to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” added Teodoro.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro talks in a press briefing in Malacañang on Monday, October 23, 2023. (Photo from INQUIRER.net / Jean Mangaluz)
Teodoro said that the timing of the incident was also ironic, as it coincided with discussions on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.
“I think it is really very ironic that on this very day, there is the start of the second round of discussions on the proposed Code of Conduct which is hosted by China. Whereas just yesterday, they were in blatant disregard of international law and within our jurisdiction likewise. So, what kind of good faith can we expect from them?” Teodoro said.
On Sunday, Chinese vessels hit two Philippine boats on a regular resupply operation to the BRP Sierra Madre.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had instructed the Philippine Coast Guard to investigate the event.
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