11 April 2015

The US has issued recent statements on China's massive reclamation activities. These statements, and those of other nations, reflect growing international concern over these reclamations that are contrary to international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and undermine our collective efforts to build regional security and stability.

The Philippines will continue to work with ASEAN and other responsible members of the international community to address unilateral aggressive actions that directly challenge the rule of law, create tensions, and pose risks to the peace and stability of the region. A key element in this is the full and effective implementation of the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and the early adoption of a binding Code of Conduct. The Philippines' arbitration case based on UNCLOS seeks to clarify maritime entitlements as a step to peacefully resolve the disputes in accordance with international law.

Developments in the South China Sea concern not only the claimant states and the region, but also the international community. All should contribute to efforts to establish a regional architecture based on the rule of law. END