Kuala lumpur: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. raised concerns over China's activities in the West Philippine Sea before a summit meeting between United States President Donald Trump and ASEAN leaders. Among these activities is China's unilateral plan to establish a nature reserve in Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), a maritime feature claimed by the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos did not directly name China but expressed concern over 'dangerous maneuvers and coercive actions' that interfere with Philippine activities in the West Philippine Sea. He stated these actions violate international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The Philippines has repeatedly protested China's harassment of Filipino vessels, including water cannon attacks by the China Coast Guard on resupply missions. Marcos criticized China's move to establish the so-called Huangyan Island National Reserve in Bajo de Masinloc, emphasizing it violates Philippine sovereignty and traditional fishing rights guaranteed by UNCLOS and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award.
Despite maritime tensions, Marcos stated that the Philippines remains 'firm, calm, and resolute' in advocating for the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. He reaffirmed Manila's commitment to a Code of Conduct that is 'effective, substantive, and consistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS.'
Beyond maritime issues, Marcos highlighted collaboration between the U.S. and ASEAN to address emerging challenges such as cybercrimes and other transnational crimes. He looked forward to co-chairing the 22nd ASEAN Region Forum Inter-Sessional Meeting on Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime.
On the economic front, Marcos underscored the importance of the ASEAN-United States Trade and Investment Facilitation Arrangement in supporting trade, MSMEs, digital economy initiatives, cybersecurity, and sustainability. He noted the value of United States partnerships in promoting education and youth empowerment.
Marcos concluded by welcoming the adoption of the ASEAN-United States Joint Vision Statement, describing it as a strategic framework that aligns with ASEAN's long-term vision and strengthens collaboration for regional peace, stability, and prosperity.
