Philippines urges China to reconsider arbitration

MANILA, Philippines — Manila asked Beijing to cooperate in arbitration before a tribunal on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Foreign Affairs spokesperson Charles Jose said Wednesday that China should welcome the peaceful process initiated by the Philippine government in January 2013 and submit its counter-memorial to the international tribunal.

"We continue to urge China to reconsider its decision not to participate in the arbitration proceedings," Jose said, as noted in a state news report.

"We wish to reiterate that arbitration is a peaceful, open and friendly resolution mechanism that offers a durable solution to the disputes in the South China Sea," he added.

The Hague-based arbitral tribunal issued a procedural order giving China until December 15 to answer the Philippines' claims submitted before the court.

Earlier this year, China said it rejects the arbitration case as an insult to friendly relations between the two countries. Beijing also insisted on direct talks with the Philippines to formulate a settlement on the longstanding sea row.

Also read: China's position paper on sea disputes with Philippines

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said, however, that the arbitration is the Philippines' last resort after initial negotiations with China failed. - Camille Diola