PH to only engage China on WPS if sincere

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stated that the Philippines should only engage in bilateral talks with China concerning the West Philippine Sea (WPS) if China demonstrates sincerity.

He cautioned that without sincerity, such negotiations would be an attempt to constrain the Philippines from enforcing its claims under international law.

Teodoro believes that formal bilateral discussions should only be held when China proves its sincerity, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has noted the continuation of China's illegal activities.

He warned that entering into negotiations under current circumstances could play into China's strategy.

The decision on whether to pursue bilateral talks with China on the WPS issue will ultimately rest with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos and the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Meanwhile, parliamentarians from China agreed to adopt a resolution at the 31st Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) that mentions the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and seeks to maintain peace in the use of seas consistent with it.