The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) on Monday, October 19, condemned the recurring unlawful activities of Chinese vessels in Philippine maritime zones, citing unauthorized fishing, reported waste dumping, suspected marine scientific research without Philippine consent, and dangerous maneuvers.
In a press release, the NTF-WPS said the incidents were reported in several areas, including the territorial sea of Kota Island, waters near Lawak Island, and off Batanes.
“These actions threaten the safety of Filipino personnel, undermine the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk, and interfere with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of its maritime rights,” the task force said.
It stressed that the recurrence of such activities demands an end to conduct that disregards international law and threatens regional stability.
Citing the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the NTF-WPS emphasized that the Philippines exercises sovereignty over its territory and territorial sea, as well as sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf.
The task force said unauthorized fishing within Philippine territorial waters and the exploitation of resources in the country’s EEZ without proper authorization violate Philippine laws and maritime rights. It also underscored that marine scientific research in the EEZ and continental shelf requires the consent of the Philippines as the coastal state.
The NTF-WPS further invoked the 2016 arbitral award, which rejected the legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims insofar as they exceed the limits established under UNCLOS.
“China’s continued assertions cannot override the Convention or erase the legal effect of the Arbitral Award,” it said, adding that repeated deployments and unilateral claims cannot establish maritime entitlements unrecognized by international law.
The task force commended the Philippine Coast Guard, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other concerned agencies for their vigilance and professionalism in monitoring, documenting, and responding to the reported incidents.
It also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the country’s maritime interests through lawful operations, diplomatic engagement, and appropriate legal measures.
“China must respect the law, cease its unlawful activities, and act in accordance with its international obligations,” the NTF-WPS said.
