President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued a strong diplomatic protest against China’s recent declaration of a “National Nature Reserve” in the disputed Scarborough Shoal, asserting Philippine sovereignty over the area during the 20th East Asia Summit (EAS).

In his intervention, Marcos described the move as a violation of international law and a direct affront to the Philippines’ territorial rights. “Bajo de Masinloc remains a longstanding and integral part of the Philippines,” he said, emphasizing that only the Philippines has the authority to designate protected areas within its maritime zones.

The President warned that China’s unilateral action undermines traditional fishing rights of Filipino fisherfolk and contravenes both the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the landmark 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.

Despite the firm stance, Marcos underscored the importance of diplomacy and constructive dialogue to manage regional tensions. “There is a pressing need for sincere efforts toward restraint, de-escalation, and respect for international law,” he said.

The summit, held alongside the 47th ASEAN Summit, brought together leaders from ASEAN member states and key dialogue partners including China, the United States, India, and Russia. Chinese Premier Li Qiang represented Beijing at the talks.

ASEAN Chair and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim echoed calls for regional solutions, cautioning against external interference and urging all parties to uphold international law in ongoing negotiations for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

The Philippines, set to chair ASEAN in 2026, aims to deepen maritime cooperation, including joint exercises to promote freedom and safety of navigation across the Indo-Pacific. (PNA)