US reaffirms commitment to PH in South China Sea, warns China

The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to stand with the Philippines against any form of harassment and intimidation in the South China Sea.

A statement from the Office of the Spokesperson noted the continued infringement upon freedom of navigation by the PRC Coast Guard.

The US reiterated its commitment to come to the Philippines' defense, warning China that an attack on Philippine armed forces in the South China Sea would trigger the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

Washington reminded Beijing of its obligations following continued routine patrols by Chinese vessels within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The Philippine Coast Guard spotted more than 100 Chinese vessels, including a warship and coast guard ships, during maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea from April 18 to 24.

China, which claims almost the entirety of the resource-rich sea, has refused longtime appeals by the Philippines to withdraw the vessels that Manila said unlawfully entered its EEZ.

The US called upon Beijing to desist from its provocative and unsafe conduct, stating that the United States continues to track and monitor these interactions closely.

The United States stands with its Philippine allies in upholding the rules-based international maritime order.