China: PH-US joint WPS patrols must not hurt its territorial sovereignty

FILE PHOTO: The Philippine Navy’s grounded BRP Sierra Madre (lower right), as shown in this February 21, 2023, photo, marks the Philippine presence at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the country’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea. Philippine Daily Inquirer/Niño Jesus Orbeta

MANILA, Philippines — China raised an alert on the Philippines and United States’ joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea, saying it must not hurt their territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press conference held Wednesday, was asked to give comments on the resumption of joint patrols conducted by the Philippines and the United States after several years.

“China has stated its position to the Philippines and the US. The joint patrol must not hurt China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” said Mao.

READ: PH, US start ‘bilateral sail’ in West Philippine Sea

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday announced that joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea have begun, calling it a “testament” to the country’s commitment to “bolster interoperability of our military forces.”

READ: PH, US plan more ‘joint sail’ in WPS, open for more participants

In 2016, the arbitral tribunal ruled overwhelmingly in favor of the Philippines, determining that China’s claim in the South China Sea, including its nine-dash line and other activities in Philippine waters—were unlawful.

But despite this ruling, Chinese fishing vessels continue to swarm the Philippine waters.