Statement of the Department of Foreign Affairs on Developments in the South China Sea

21 May 2018 — The Department of Foreign Affairs, in close coordination with the other relevant departments and agencies, is closely monitoring developments in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea.

We are taking the appropriate diplomatic action necessary to protect our claims and will continue to do so in the future.

We reiterate our commitment to protect every single inch of our territory and areas which we have sovereign rights over.

While appropriate language, whether expressions of condemnation or concern, over certain developments are clearly conveyed through diplomatic channels, it is not our policy to publicize every action taken by the Philippine Government whenever there are reported developments taking place in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea.

The country has gained much under the Duterte Administration. Fighting for our rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and under our present stategy, we intend to achieve much more, including, but not limited to, an effective comprehensive Code of Conduct that will promote peace, cooperation, and stability in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea. Moving forward, we are taking a different approach to avoid any drawbacks and challenges.

In professionally and prudently advancing our interests in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, we will always be guided by our patriotic duty to protect the Filipino people and defend our sovereignty. END