MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued a formal protest and several demarches to China regarding the presence of a “floating structure” in Bajo de Masinloc, as reported by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
The DFA issued the statement on Tuesday after the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) confirmed the information released by AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. regarding the presence of the structure.
“The DFA has undertaken the appropriate diplomatic action, such as several demarches and the issuance of a formal protest against the structure in Bajo de Masinloc, reported by the AFP and the PCG,” the statement read.
“We are unable to discuss the specific contents of the demarches and the diplomatic protest any further as these are confidential communications,” the DFA added.
According to the NTF-WPS, aerial monitoring by several agencies has confirmed the presence of a 6x6-meter floating structure with what appears to be an antenna.
Latest imagery obtained by the AFP likewise shows the presence of personnel on top of the structure. Recent PCG monitoring further indicates that the platform is currently located within the shoal, with individuals observed onboard, the NTF-WPS said.
Currently, the NTF-WPS is closely coordinating with relevant government agencies to monitor developments and further assess the nature, purpose, and implications of the installation and related activities within the shoal.
“Inter-agency efforts are ongoing to establish a complete and accurate picture of the situation,” the NTF-WPS said.
The NTF-WPS also affirmed its steadfast commitment in upholding the rules-based international order, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
“We reiterate that Bajo de Masinloc is an integral part of the Philippines and falls within the country's maritime zones as recognized under international law,” the NTF-WPS stated.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Manila issued a statement, reiterating its claim on the contested waters and that all activities carried out by China are “fully within its sovereign rights.”
“Huangyan Dao is China’s inherent territory. China has indisputable sovereignty over it and its adjacent waters. It is fully within China’s sovereign rights to carry out activities including scientific research at Huangyan Dao,” Chinese Embassy Spokesperson Ji Lingpeng said in a statement.
He further called the South China Sea arbitration award “illegal, null, and void.”
“China does not accept or recognize it, and will never accept any claim or action based on the award. This position is consistent, clear and firm. China will continue to firmly uphold its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea,” Ji said.
