NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
PH Pursues COC With ASEAN Neighbors Ahead Of China
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced that the Philippines is actively engaging in negotiations for a distinct code of conduct (COC) with Southeast Asian countries, particularly those with which it shares territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
This move comes as progress in COC negotiations between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been deemed slow.
During a question and answer session at the Daniel Inouye Speaker Series in Honolulu, President Marcos stated, "We are now in the midst of negotiating our own code of conduct, for example, with Vietnam because we are still waiting for the code of conduct between China and ASEAN, and the progress has been rather slow, unfortunately."
He emphasized that the Philippines has taken the initiative to approach other ASEAN countries with whom it shares existing territorial conflicts, with the aim of establishing a code of conduct that can be expanded further within the ASEAN community.
President Marcos highlighted the importance of maintaining the status quo and peace in the region, especially with neighboring nations such as Vietnam and Malaysia.
While pursuing regional cooperation, President Marcos affirmed the Philippines' commitment to strengthening partnerships, including its alliance with the United States.
He emphasized the Mutual Defense Treaty with the U.S. as a foundational element in the country's international relations, acknowledging the consistent support received from the U.S. in both rhetoric and tangible assistance.
President Marcos also noted similar backing from other key partners, including Australia, South Korea, and Japan.
Amid increasing challenges, particularly China's island-building activities near Philippine territories, the Philippines continues to enhance its capabilities to address potential confrontations.
He remarked, "Now it's becoming more and more often. Every so often, there is a confrontation between outside forces and Philippine forces."
The President underscored the ongoing efforts to bolster partnerships with like-minded nations that share common values and respect for international law.
This move comes as progress in COC negotiations between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been deemed slow.
During a question and answer session at the Daniel Inouye Speaker Series in Honolulu, President Marcos stated, "We are now in the midst of negotiating our own code of conduct, for example, with Vietnam because we are still waiting for the code of conduct between China and ASEAN, and the progress has been rather slow, unfortunately."
He emphasized that the Philippines has taken the initiative to approach other ASEAN countries with whom it shares existing territorial conflicts, with the aim of establishing a code of conduct that can be expanded further within the ASEAN community.
President Marcos highlighted the importance of maintaining the status quo and peace in the region, especially with neighboring nations such as Vietnam and Malaysia.
While pursuing regional cooperation, President Marcos affirmed the Philippines' commitment to strengthening partnerships, including its alliance with the United States.
He emphasized the Mutual Defense Treaty with the U.S. as a foundational element in the country's international relations, acknowledging the consistent support received from the U.S. in both rhetoric and tangible assistance.
President Marcos also noted similar backing from other key partners, including Australia, South Korea, and Japan.
Amid increasing challenges, particularly China's island-building activities near Philippine territories, the Philippines continues to enhance its capabilities to address potential confrontations.
He remarked, "Now it's becoming more and more often. Every so often, there is a confrontation between outside forces and Philippine forces."
The President underscored the ongoing efforts to bolster partnerships with like-minded nations that share common values and respect for international law.
Nov 21, 2023
