DND denies agreements with China compromising Philippine sovereignty

On Saturday, the Department of National Defense denied any agreements with China that would compromise Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.

DND Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. stated that there has been no contact between the Philippines and Chinese government officials since President Marcos took office last year.

The National Security Council echoed DND's stance, asserting that China's claims of a 'new model' are propaganda aimed at shifting blame for tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya emphasized that there is no agreement regarding Ayungin Shoal and that any understanding without presidential authorization would be invalid.

Malaya stressed that the Philippines cannot agree to any understanding that violates international law or the Philippine constitution, as Ayungin Shoal falls within its exclusive economic zone.

Wescom confirmed on Saturday that a PLAN vessel was spotted shadowing the flotilla participating in the maritime exercise (MME) of the 39th Exercise Balikatan near Ayungin Shoal.

The MME in Palawan waters, led by BRP Ramon Alcaraz and involving French and US naval vessels, tested coordination and precision for helicopter landings on different ships.