19 February 2016

The Philippines is gravely concerned by reports that China has deployed surface-to-air missiles in Woody Island. Such actions negate China’s earlier commitment not to militarize the South China Sea.

These developments further erode trust and confidence and aggravate the already tense situation in the region. It is a clear violation of the DOC and other relevant ASEAN-China Declarations and Statements. They put into question the good faith of China to work with ASEAN for the early conclusion of the COC, and to cooperate in the efforts of all parties to find ways forward on the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with UNCLOS. END