Laoac: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday described as "not binding" the letter presented by China alleging that Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) is not part of Philippine territory. "That letter is not binding at all. Iyan ang problema sa China. Lahat ng mga pagsisinungaling ginagawa nila," he added during an interview on the sidelines of a medical and dental mission in Laoac, Pangasinan.

According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro was referring to the 1990 letter, being presented by the Chinese Embassy in Manila as allegedly penned by the late Philippine Ambassador to Germany, Bienvenido Tan Jr., claiming that Scarborough Shoal is outside Philippine territory. He also added that such Chinese actions were aimed at changing the perception of Filipinos to make them side with China regarding the West Philippine Sea issue.

"Actually, may mga dalubhasa na nagsasabi ang problema China's Indo-Pacific engagement strategy is directly tied to the legitimacy of the ruling regime and serves the personal interests of their leaders," Teodoro said.