DFA rejects China's claim over Pag-asa Island

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) rejected claims by the Chinese Embassy in Manila asserting Chinese ownership over Pag-asa Island and its surrounding cays.

The DFA reiterated that Pag-asa Island and its cays are part of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), over which the Philippines has longstanding sovereignty and jurisdiction.

The DFA stated that the Philippines is within its rights to conduct routine maritime operations and scientific research in these features.

The DFA maintained that these actions are consistent with international law, including the UNCLOS, the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award, and the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).

The DFA emphasized that China has no right to object to or interfere with these lawful activities.

This statement follows the Chinese Coast Guard's earlier justification for water cannoning two Filipino civilian vessels near Sandy Cay.