Inquirer
Hontiveros: Joint maritime activities are always welcome
Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed support for the Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) involving the Philippines, US, Australia, and Japan, highlighting its importance for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.
Hontiveros stated that the joint maritime exercise demonstrates that the Philippines is not isolated in its efforts to maintain regional security.
The senator believes the MMCA reinforces global agreement against China's territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea, which she characterized as unfounded and contrary to UNCLOS.
She emphasized the relevance of the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, a new law consistent with international law and the 2016 Arbitral Ruling that invalidated China's extensive claims in the South China Sea.
According to Hontiveros, the Maritime Zones Act explicitly defines the maritime features and territories west of the Philippines as the West Philippine Sea, asserting Philippine jurisdiction over these areas.
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The Philippines, United States, Japan, and Australia successfully completed their sixth Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea, despite the presence of Chinese navy vessels.
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The Philippines, United States, and Canada have concluded the 7th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea, demonstrating a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
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Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo AƱo and his Japanese counterpart Okano Masataka have reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate on maritime security in the West Philippine Sea.
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The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) refuted claims by China's Southern Theater Command that the Philippines' joint maritime drills with the US and Canada in the West Philippine Sea constituted infringement on China's rights and undermined regional peace.
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President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to defending its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), stating that Manila will maintain its presence regardless of China's actions.
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