17 lawmakers urge Marcos to push UN resolution against China in WPS

At least 17 lawmakers urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to present a resolution at the upcoming UN General Assembly, calling for China to halt its 'hostile acts' against the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.

Led by House Deputy Minority Leader Leila de Lima and Gerville Luistro, these lawmakers cited the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that declared Chinese claims in the South China Sea as having no legal basis.

The resolution highlights China's deployment of maritime militia within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and lists seven instances of aggression from June 2024 to August 2025, with six occurring this year alone.

Lawmakers also noted recent increased Chinese activity around Ayungin Shoal, including water cannon maneuvers and aerial surveillance by Chinese boats, aircraft, and drones.

They urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to introduce a resolution at the UNGA urging China to respect the arbitral ruling and cease aggressive acts in the WPS, with Rep. Chel Diokno calling for rejoining the International Criminal Court to address crimes of aggression.

Marcos is set to visit Cambodia and attend the UN General Assembly on September 8.