Philippines Asserts Sovereignty Amid China’s Claims
The Philippines has reaffirmed its commitment to carry out maritime security operations and research activities in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), including Pag-asa Island and Pag-asa Cays, despite objections from China. The Kalayaan Island Group remains a vital area where the Philippines exercises sovereign rights and jurisdiction.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) firmly rejects the recent statements from the Chinese Embassy spokesperson in Manila, which challenge Philippine activities in this region. The DFA emphasized that the KIG is an integral part of the country, under longstanding sovereignty.
Maritime Security Operations in Kalayaan Island Group Continue Unhindered
The Philippine government maintains that conducting routine maritime operations and scientific research within and around the KIG is a lawful exercise of sovereignty. Officials pointed out that these operations comply with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, and the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).
“China has no right to object much less interfere with these lawful and routine activities,” government representatives said. They urged China to respect the Philippines’ jurisdiction, underscoring the country’s commitment to peaceful and legal channels to manage maritime disputes.
China’s Response and Allegations
Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Manila asserts its “indisputable sovereignty” over the Spratly Islands and their surrounding waters. The embassy accused the Philippines of violating the DOC through “27 unauthorized landings involving 167 personnel on uninhabited features in the South China Sea.” They also dismissed the scientific research efforts as resembling “film production rather than genuine research.”
China further claimed that the Philippines’ actions were provocative and deceptive, stating, “It is clear which party initiated the provocation and which is engaging in deception.” The embassy pledged to continue protecting its territorial claims and ensuring certain areas remain without personnel or facilities, in line with the DOC.
Recent Harassment Incident in Sandy Cay
Tensions recently escalated when Philippine civilian vessels conducting research in the South China Sea faced harassment from the China Coast Guard (CCG). Reports indicate that the CCG used water cannons against the BRP Datu Sanday and subsequently rammed the vessel, damaging its bow and chimney.
Sandy Cay lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), just four nautical miles from Pag-asa Island. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources condemned the incident, highlighting the risks posed to Filipino researchers operating in these contested waters.
Commitment to Peaceful Resolution and Sovereignty Protection
Despite these challenges, the Philippines remains steadfast in exercising its maritime rights in the Kalayaan Island Group. Officials reiterated their commitment to peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law as the basis for resolving overlapping claims.
For more news and updates on maritime security operations in the Kalayaan Island Group, visit Filipinokami.com.