The Philippines issued a stern warning to China, stating that its new coast guard regulations, set to take effect on June 15, would violate international law if enforced in the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) emphasized that China’s regulations cannot be applied in other states’ territories or maritime zones and reminded China to abide by its commitments under international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Under China’s new regulations, foreign vessels and individuals suspected of crossing China-claimed waters could be detained without trial for up to 60 days, a move criticized by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
The DFA reiterated its call for China to comply with the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea and urged full compliance with international law.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 27, 2024
