Manila: The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has praised the foreign ministers of the Quad nations-United States, Japan, India, and Australia-for their stance against 'dangerous and provocative actions' in the South China Sea, including the deployment of water cannons on vessels.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA emphasized that by spotlighting these ongoing threats and coercive behaviors, the Quad Foreign Ministers have maintained attention on the issues that the Philippines consistently faces in the West Philippine Sea. This acknowledgment reflects the global community's strong disapproval of unlawful, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive activities in the region.

The DFA highlighted the importance of adhering to international law, specifically the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as the legal framework guiding all maritime activities. In a joint statement on July 1, the foreign ministers of the US, Japan, India, and Australia reiterated their commitment to promoting a region free from coercion. They expressed concern over the 'dangerous maneuvers by military aircraft and coast guard and maritime militia vessels,' particularly criticizing the unsafe use of water cannons and obstruction tactics in the South China Sea.

These actions, according to the ministers, pose a significant threat to peace and stability in the area. The DFA also expressed its appreciation for the Quad Foreign Ministers' unequivocal support for the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, which it believes solidifies the ruling's position as an integral part of international law.

The DFA noted that, nine years after the ruling, the Arbitral Award continues to serve as a crucial affirmation of the dispute settlement mechanism under UNCLOS. It has been referenced by both the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in their respective legal decisions. The DFA stressed that this landmark ruling deserves full compliance to further the peaceful resolution of disputes.

For its part, the Philippine government remains committed to upholding a rules-based order governed by international law, particularly UNCLOS. The DFA stated that the country would prioritize effective diplomacy and constructive management of differences to address maritime issues.