Philippines Dismisses China’s Protests Over South China Sea Operations
MANILA —
The Philippines has firmly rejected China’s objections to its recent activities in the disputed South China Sea, reaffirming its sovereign rights under international law.
The statement follows escalating tensions between the two nations over the Spratly Islands, a resource-rich area claimed by multiple countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei.
“China has no right to interfere with the Philippines’ lawful maritime operations,” said a spokesperson for the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. Officials emphasized that the activities comply with international maritime law, particularly the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling, which invalidated China’s expansive territorial claims in the region.
The Philippines continues to assert its commitment to peaceful navigation and regional stability while defending its national interests against external pressure.
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