Manila: Malaca±ang on Friday expressed elation over Lithuania's support for the Philippines' stand and policy to defend and protect the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This, after Lithuania's Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene backed the Philippines amid China's incursions and aggression in the WPS.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro conveyed gratitude towards Lithuania and Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene during a press briefing. 'Nagpapasalamat po tayo sa bansang Lithuania at kay (We are grateful to the country of Lithuania and to) Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene,' Castro stated. She emphasized the current administration's efforts in defending the rights of Filipino fishermen and compatriots concerning the West Philippine Sea.
In an exclusive interview with NewsWatch Plus during his official visit to Manila, Sakaliene praised the Philippines' documentation and reportage of China's harassment of fisherfolk as a 'gold standard.' He also described China's actions in the WPS as 'gaslighting.'
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in the June 21 episode of his podcast, pledged to continue protecting Philippine territory, asserting that he would not permit any foreign power to seize 'even an inch' of the country's domain. Marcos reiterated his commitment to asserting the country's sovereign rights over the WPS.
To safeguard the nation's marine resources, Marcos signed Republic Act (RA) 12064, the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, and RA 12065, the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, on Nov. 8, 2024. RA 12064 outlines the maritime zones under Philippine jurisdiction, while RA 12065 designates the sea lanes and air routes suitable for the continuous and expeditious passage of foreign ships and aircraft through or over its archipelagic waters and the adjacent territorial sea.
