Malacañang: PH will assert rights in West Philippine Sea despite China's warnings

Malacañang responded Friday to China's criticism of recent military activities between the Philippines and Australia, stating that the Philippines will continue to assert its rights in the West Philippine Sea based on international laws and rulings.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said during a press briefing that the Philippines cannot be stopped from defending its legal claims despite China's characterization of it as a 'disruptor and troublemaker'.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Australian Defence Force (ADC) conducted live fire drills at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija as part of Exercise Amphibious Land Operation (ALON) 2025 involving over 3,600 troops from four countries.

China's Ministry of National Defense warned the Philippines about 'consequences' if it continues to provoke incidents and infringe upon Ayungin Shoal, reinforcing Beijing's claim on almost all of the South China Sea despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in favor of the Philippines.

The West Philippine Sea refers to maritime areas west of the Philippine archipelago, including parts claimed by the Philippines under UNCLOS and international law.