The Philippines welcomed the G7 foreign ministers’ statement opposing the use of force and coercion in the South China Sea and reaffirming the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said Manila shares the G7’s concerns over dangerous maritime maneuvers, restrictions on freedom of navigation, and the need to uphold UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
The DFA also expressed appreciation for the G7’s call for security, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Meanwhile, 45 Indo-Pacific countries are meeting in Manila to strengthen multinational cooperation through the IORIS platform, with a focus on maritime security, counter-piracy, and coordinated search-and-rescue operations.
The meeting underscores the region’s commitment to a rules-based maritime order and the development of deeper strategic partnerships across agencies and borders.
Source: PhilNews24 | November 20, 2025
