The National Maritime Council rejected statements made by China’s ambassador concerning the Philippines’ rotation and resupply missions to Second Thomas Shoal, asserting that the remarks misrepresent both sovereign rights and the provisional arrangement governing the operations. The council emphasized that accurate representation of the agreement is essential for maintaining regional stability.
The council clarified that the provisional understanding was established solely to facilitate lawful and safe rotation and resupply of the BRP Sierra Madre. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of incidents at sea while supporting legitimate Philippine activities.
It stressed that the arrangement does not grant any country authority to approve, regulate, inspect, or restrict Philippine actions at Ayungin Shoal. The agreement is not a mechanism for external oversight of Philippine operations.
The council affirmed that the legal status of Ayungin Shoal remains unchanged and that the feature lies within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. This position is grounded in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 South China Sea arbitral award.
Under international law, the Philippines is not required to seek permission before undertaking lawful activities within its own EEZ. No agreement has altered or diminished the sovereign rights the Philippines exercises over Ayungin Shoal.
The statement responded to remarks by Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, which the council said incorrectly characterized the provisional understanding and the Philippines’ lawful activities at the shoal. The council rejected the ambassador’s interpretation as inaccurate.
The council also rejected any attempt to invoke the provisional understanding as justification for coercive or violent actions against Philippine personnel conducting resupply missions. Such actions would contravene the spirit of confidence‑building measures.
It noted that confidence‑building measures are intended to prevent confrontations at sea and must not be used to justify escalatory behavior. Protecting lives and de‑escalating tensions remain paramount.
The council urged China to refrain from statements or actions that could undermine peace and stability in the South China Sea. Constructive dialogue should be anchored in mutual respect, good faith, and adherence to international law.
The Philippines remains committed to resolving differences peacefully while safeguarding its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction. This commitment aligns with the President’s policy of promoting a rules‑based maritime order.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not respond to a request for comment. The inquiry was made via Viber.
