An aerial view shows the BRP Sierra Madre on the contested Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin, in the West Philippine Sea on March 9, 2023. (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — The “new model” that China claims it is following in its conduct around Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is “nothing more than a new invention,” the National Security Council (NSC) said in a statement on Saturday.
“As the President [Ferdinand Marcos Jr.] has clearly stated, there is no agreement whatsoever about Ayungin Shoal and that we shall continue to do all activities within the bounds of international law and we shall brook no interference in our lawful actions,” the NSC said.
Last April 18, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines made a remark on this “new model,” saying: “A ‘new model’for management of the Ren’ai Jiao situation was also agreed upon by both sides early this year after rounds of serious communications with the Philippine military.”
READ: China slams PH’s repeated denial of Ayungin Shoal ‘understanding’
The NSC asserted that the Philippines would not allow agreements recognizing Chinese control over the shoal.
“Moreover, the Philippines will never agree to any ‘internal understanding’ or ‘new model’ that can be deemed as acquiescence or recognition of China’s control and administration over the Ayungin Shoal as China’s territory,” the NSC said.