NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
NTF-WPS Denounces Actions By China Coast Guard In The West Philippine Sea
Photo credit: Jay Tarriela
The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) has reported a resupply mission to the BRP SIERRA MADRE (LS 57) stationed at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on the morning of September 8, 2023. This operation, led by the Western Command (WESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and supported by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), aims to ensure the well-being and operational readiness of the vessel in the contested region.
However, the NTF-WPS also expressed concern over the harassment, maneuvers, and behavior exhibited by vessels belonging to the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) during routine operations within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). These actions have raised tensions in the already volatile region.
In a statement, the Task Force reiterated that these operations are in line with the Philippine government's exercise of administrative functions and jurisdiction over the West Philippine Sea. This authority is rooted in international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
The NTF-WPS condemned the illegal, aggressive, and destabilizing conduct of the CCG and the CMM within the Philippines' EEZ. The Task Force emphasized the importance of upholding regional peace, security, and stability in accordance with international law, as underscored by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. during the 43rd ASEAN Summit. The President's message stressed that practical cooperation in the maritime domain can flourish in an environment that prioritizes these principles.
The NTF-WPS called on all parties involved to contribute to the maintenance of a peaceful and rules-based international order in the oceans. The Task Force's message reflects the Philippines' commitment to protecting its territorial rights and maintaining stability in the West Philippine Sea while advocating for international cooperation and adherence to established legal norms.
However, the NTF-WPS also expressed concern over the harassment, maneuvers, and behavior exhibited by vessels belonging to the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) during routine operations within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). These actions have raised tensions in the already volatile region.
In a statement, the Task Force reiterated that these operations are in line with the Philippine government's exercise of administrative functions and jurisdiction over the West Philippine Sea. This authority is rooted in international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
The NTF-WPS condemned the illegal, aggressive, and destabilizing conduct of the CCG and the CMM within the Philippines' EEZ. The Task Force emphasized the importance of upholding regional peace, security, and stability in accordance with international law, as underscored by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. during the 43rd ASEAN Summit. The President's message stressed that practical cooperation in the maritime domain can flourish in an environment that prioritizes these principles.
The NTF-WPS called on all parties involved to contribute to the maintenance of a peaceful and rules-based international order in the oceans. The Task Force's message reflects the Philippines' commitment to protecting its territorial rights and maintaining stability in the West Philippine Sea while advocating for international cooperation and adherence to established legal norms.
Sep 8, 2023
