The Department of National Defense (DND) of the Philippines has firmly rejected China's claim that the country's updated nautical chart of Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal is "illegal, null and void." This statement comes as China threatens to implement "firm and effective countermeasures" in response to what it describes as provocations.
Philippine Sovereignty Asserted
The DND emphasized that the submission of the updated chart to the United Nations represents a lawful exercise of the Philippines' rights under international law. According to the DND, Panatag Shoal, referred to as Bajo de Masinloc, is an integral part of the Philippine national territory.
The recent submission by the Philippines of the updated nautical chart to the United Nations provides the necessary legal clarity and due publicity to the international community on the geographical limits of our maritime zones in BDM.
Department of National Defense
The DND's response follows remarks from China's Ministry of National Defense, which criticized the Philippines' actions and reiterated that the shoal is part of China's territory. Chinese spokesperson Senior Col. Chen Xi stated that the Philippine actions constitute a violation of China's sovereignty.
The DND, however, reiterated that the Philippines will continue to exercise its sovereignty over the area, dismissing China's narrative as an attempt to distort international law.
Historically, the arbitral tribunal in The Hague ruled in July 2016 that while Panatag Shoal does not generate an exclusive economic zone, it has been a traditional fishing ground for the Philippines and other nations.
Despite the ruling, China continues to reject it and asserts its claim over the shoal, escalating tensions in the region. The DND's latest statements indicate a commitment to maintaining Philippine sovereignty amid these ongoing challenges.