The Department of National Defense (DND) has strongly rejected China's recent claims of sovereignty over Pag-asa and Lawak Islands, affirming that these areas remain under Philippine jurisdiction. This assertion comes amid ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Philippine Authority in the West Philippine Sea
The legitimate exercise of Philippine authority in these areas... is intended to support the welfare, safety, and livelihood of Filipinos residing and working therein.
Arsenio Andolong, DND Spokesperson
According to DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, the islands are administered by the Philippines as part of the Municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan. The DND emphasized that ongoing construction and development activities on these islands are lawful and intended to improve living conditions for residents.
China's Ministry of National Defense recently reiterated its opposition to Philippine activities in the South China Sea. It claims that the Philippines is illegally occupying these features, which it refers to as part of the Nansha Islands. In contrast, the Philippines has consistently cited the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China's extensive claims in the region.
Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad of the Armed Forces of the Philippines also affirmed that any infrastructure projects in the West Philippine Sea are conducted within the Philippines' legal rights. This alignment with international law is crucial as the Philippines continues to navigate its relationship with China.
As tensions remain high in the region, the Philippines is committed to safeguarding its territorial integrity and upholding international maritime laws, reinforcing its position against China's expansive claims. The recent developments have led the AFP to declare a 'political war' in the West Philippine Sea dispute.