Manila:President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains optimistic that negotiations for a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea (SCS) will be finalized during the Philippines' chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Malacañang announced on Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that Marcos aims for the long-awaited agreement to be concluded during the Philippines' term as ASEAN chair in 2026. Castro acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the conclusion of the COC at the 49th ASEAN Summit but emphasized the President's desire to achieve finalization while the Philippines holds the ASEAN chair.
During a press briefing, Castro refrained from commenting on the current status of negotiations for a binding and effective COC, noting that the Department of Foreign Affairs is more suited to address those details. Despite the uncertainty over the agreement's completion, Castro highlighted the administration's ongoing hope, stating, "Bawat araw, dapat may pagasa (Every day, there should be hope)."
Marcos has expressed hope that a legally binding COC in the SCS will be finalized by the end of 2026, with the Philippines actively seeking to advance negotiations during its ASEAN chairship.
