Speaking during a Senate Committee on Finance Subcommittee A hearing, Teodoro reiterated the country’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the United Nations Charter.
He also refuted China’s allegations that the Philippines was provoking tensions and acting as a troublemaker.
“Reiterate muli namin, Your Honor, ang aming pagsuporta at pagtaguyod sa UNCLOS and the UN Charter,” Teodoro said.
The defense chief noted that the ambassador had repeatedly made remarks suggesting China could use force and still prevail, citing statements such as “you lose” and references to cutting military communications.
“Pero maliwanag po ang ating pagtutol, hindi lang dito sa statement niya, kung hindi, the more important thing, yung kanilang false narrative na may nine-dash line, may meron silang jurisdiction,” Teodoro said.
He also objected to China’s latest narrative claiming that Batanes is part of Chinese territory, stressing the Philippines’ opposition to Beijing’s assertions of jurisdiction over the area.
Teodoro confirmed that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) had summoned the Chinese ambassador, adding that the government would await further developments and any public announcement from the President or the DFA.
The defense chief’s remarks came amid renewed concerns over China’s maritime claims and statements involving the Philippines’ territorial integrity and security.
