Manila: Amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, the Philippines stands firm on asserting its security independence, reaffirming its commitment to maintain and resupply its outposts without seeking permission from other nations, as stated by the country’s National Security Adviser.
The Philippines’ National Security Council, in a statement issued on Saturday, underscored its determination to uphold sovereign rights over the Second Thomas Shoal. “Our operations are conducted within our own territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, and we will not be deterred by foreign interference or intimidation,” emphasized Secretary Eduardo Ano.
This declaration comes in response to China’s recent suggestion that the Philippines should notify Beijing before accessing certain areas. China’s foreign ministry proposed allowing access for supply deliveries and personnel evacuation if Manila notifies them beforehand.
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Ano swiftly dismissed these suggestions as “absurd, nonsense, and unacceptable,” asserting, “We do not and will never need China’s approval for any of our activities therein.”
However, while maintaining its sovereignty, the Philippines remains open to dialogue and peaceful negotiations to resolve disputes in the South China Sea, according to the National Security Council.
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Recent tensions escalated when the Philippine coastguard accused its Chinese counterpart of obstructing efforts to evacuate an ailing member of the armed forces in the South China Sea. This incident adds to a longstanding territorial dispute with China, which asserts vast claims over the South China Sea, a vital route for over $3 trillion in annual maritime trade.
In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled against China’s claims, a decision Beijing has adamantly rejected.
