Marcos: PHL defending territory in WPS, not seeking conflict

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos stated that the Philippines is not seeking conflict in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), but is instead defending its maritime territory and the rights of Filipino fishermen.

Marcos asserted that the government will continue to protect the country's maritime domain and ensure fishermen can continue their livelihood in areas they have historically fished.

The President reiterated the Philippines' stance of avoiding trouble and harsh words while remaining steadfast in its defense of national territory.

An expert lauded President Marcos Jr.'s decisiveness in ordering the cutting of the floating barrier China installed at the entrance of Scarborough Shoal, stating it sent a strong message that Manila is ready to make a stand in protecting its rights over the WPS.

The expert noted that Marcos' decision was decisive considering the risk of an adverse reaction from China.

The 2016 arbitral award on the South China Sea recognized that the Scarborough Shoal, well within the country's 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone, is a traditional fishing ground used by Filipinos for many generations.

The expert emphasized that China's barrier was symbolic, targeting ordinary Filipino fishermen.

He cited that fishermen were losing 164 tons of catch a day due to the 300-meter barrier.