DND to sustain nonstop deployment of assets in West Philippine Sea
The Philippine Department of National Defense has committed to maintaining a continuous presence in the West Philippine Sea to protect maritime rights and document foreign activities. This follows the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China's expansive maritime claims.
Why it matters
The ongoing tension in the West Philippine Sea is a critical geopolitical flashpoint involving international maritime law and regional sovereignty disputes.
Manila Bulletin - DND to sustain nonstop deployment of assets in West Philippine Sea
DND to sustain nonstop deployment of assets in West Philippine Sea
The Department of National Defense said it will continue the unceasing deployment of military assets in the West Philippine Sea to secure Philippine waters and document illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceitful activities by foreign vessels.
The DND said the 2016 Arbitral Award continues to serve as the Philippines' legal basis for protecting its maritime rights under UNCLOS, adding that dozens of countries have expressed support for the ruling.
Meanwhile, the National Maritime Council denounced a racist video released by China's state-run media outlet China Daily and said propaganda cannot undermine the Philippines' legal position in the West Philippine Sea or its commitment to peaceful, rules-based diplomacy.
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