Original Source
Philippines Rejects China's Warnings, Upholds EEZ Rights
Philippines Affirms Sovereignty in South China Sea
The Philippines has strongly protested recent 'warnings' from the Chinese Coast Guard to its vessels in the South China Sea. The Philippine Foreign Affairs Department stated that China's claims of sovereignty lack 'historical basis'. The Philippines emphasized its right to operate freely within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Criticism of China's Threatening Actions
Rodel Estensa Jr., spokesperson for the Philippine Western Command, criticized the Chinese Coast Guard vessel for issuing 'threatening and provocative' warnings to a Philippine vessel. The incident occurred when a Chinese Coast Guard ship issued a warning message to the Philippine Coast Guard vessel 'Malapascua' within the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines urged China to cease any attempts to interfere with its maritime patrols.
*Source: YouTube: ABS-CBN News (2026-03-30)*
