Photo credit: DFA

In a recent statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines reaffirmed that only the President of the Republic of the Philippines holds the authority to engage in agreements concerning the West Philippine Sea and South China Sea.

The DFA emphasized that no cabinet-level official under the Marcos Administration has sanctioned any Chinese proposal related to the Ayungin Shoal.

The DFA's clarification comes in response to assertions made by the Chinese Embassy regarding agreements purportedly made with Philippine officials.

The DFA categorically denies the existence of any such agreements, documents, or deals.

This reaffirmation underscores the country's commitment to asserting its sovereignty and interests in the disputed maritime territories.