PHI raises maritime concerns during ASEAN-China COC talks

The Philippines hosted ASEAN-China Code of Conduct (COC) negotiations in Manila last week, co-chaired by Malaysia and China.

During the talks, the Philippines raised concerns about recent maritime incidents, accusing China of endangering its vessels and personnel in the West Philippine Sea.

Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo stated that China's actions against Philippine vessels are precisely why a Code of Conduct is needed.

The Philippine delegation reaffirmed its commitment to peacefully resolving the sea dispute and developing diplomatic strategies to manage differences amicably.

The meeting was an opportunity for the Philippines to strongly call for adherence to international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 South China Sea arbitral award.

These negotiations are part of renewed efforts by ASEAN nations to speed up the creation of a code of conduct to prevent dangerous maritime encounters.

The COC has been stalled for over two decades, with disagreements over its scope and legal status, as China prefers a non-binding document while several ASEAN nations advocate for an enforceable agreement consistent with international law.

The South China Sea has become a regional flashpoint as China continues to claim and assert sovereignty over almost the entire sea, which is a vital trade route rich in undersea gas and oil deposits.