The Philippines rejected several maritime-related proposals from China last year, citing that they were not in line with the country’s interests, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) disclosed on Tuesday.
According to the DFA, while a few of the proposals were considered viable, many were found to contradict the Philippines’ national interests after thorough examination and deliberation within the government.
One particular proposal from China demanded actions that would imply acknowledgment of China’s authority over the Ayungin Shoal as its territory, a claim that the Philippines cannot entertain without violating its constitution and international law.
The DFA stated that Manila submitted alternative proposals, but China did not show interest in them. Instead, China presented its own counter proposals, which also did not align with Manila’s stance, especially on South China Sea issues.
The DFA’s response comes after a report from the Manila Times cited a “ranking Chinese official” claiming that the Marcos administration had been inactive in responding to China’s 11 concept papers presented in April 2023.
In a subsequent bilateral consultation meeting in Shanghai last January, Filipino and Chinese diplomats agreed to handle disputes in the South China Sea through diplomacy and improve communication between their respective foreign ministers and coast guards.
Recent tensions between the two countries were highlighted when Chinese vessels obstructed a resupply mission to Filipino troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. The strained relations come as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. strengthens ties with the United States and pushes back against Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea.
