Marcos: PH defense of territory not provocation

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. stated that the Philippines' defense of its territory in the South China Sea is not an act of provocation and that the country is exerting maximum effort to avoid war with China.

He clarified that the Philippines has not initiated any conflict or confrontation in the disputed waters.

Marcos acknowledged a perceived increase in threats and the need for a more robust defense of territorial rights recognized by international law.

Tensions have escalated since 2022 due to China's continued intimidation and harassment of Philippine vessels, with China refusing to recognize a 2016 arbitral ruling favorable to the Philippines.

In response, China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian stated that China poses no threat to any country and claimed that it is the Philippines that has been making provocations and spreading disinformation.

The Philippines has rejected China's accusations, asserting its activities are within its rights in the West Philippine Sea under international law.