Philstar
Binding sea code top Philippines priority in hosting Asean
The Philippines will prioritize the finalization of a binding code of conduct for the South China Sea during its ASEAN chairmanship in 2026.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that a binding code is crucial for preventing collisions, building of artificial islands, and other aggressive actions in the disputed waters.
He emphasized its importance to the Philippines, as the most contested areas of the West Philippine Sea are within the country's territory.
Discussions for the Code of Conduct (COC) between China and ASEAN members, including Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei who also have overlapping claims, have been ongoing since 2002.
Progress has been hindered by deadlocks, such as China's proposal to prohibit joint military exercises in the region.
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