Philippines backs US plan to navigate disputed seas

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines yesterday expressed support for the United States’ plan to conduct freedom of navigation operations in disputed areas in South China Sea.

This came after US Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs David Shear told a Senate panel last month that the Obama administration is considering conducting more freedom of navigation missions in the South China Sea as a partial counter to China’s rapid artificial island expansion in the region.

Shear also told the Senate panel that the last time a US warship passed within 12 nautical miles of a Chinese-claimed artificial island was in 2013, and it was up to the White House to authorize additional passes.

“If the US decides to send naval vessels within 12 nautical miles of the reclaimed low-tide elevation features in affirmation of this objective, this would be consistent with international law and a rules-based order for the region,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.

The DFA also said it is important for the international community to safeguard freedom of navigation and the overflight in the South China Sea. “This is of paramount concern to all countries.”

The Philippines has rejected China’s so-called nine-dash line, saying it has no basis under international law insofar as it purports to define the limits of China’s claim to “historic rights.”

The Philippines also reiterated its serious concern over China’s massive reclamation activities in the South China Sea and planned construction of facilities in those features. 

Manila slammed Beijing for ignoring calls to stop its large-scale reclamation, saying its unilateral activities are purely intended to change the character and status of features in the South China Sea and prejudice the Philippines’ arbitration case against Beijing. 

China’s positions and behavior in the South China Sea have become progressively more aggressive and disconcerting as Beijing employs “salami-slicing” strategy and “cabbage” strategy to consolidate de facto control throughout the South China Sea.

“Failure to challenge false claims of sovereignty would undermine this order and lead China to the false conclusion that its claims are accepted as a fait accompli,” the DFA said.