Marcos urges ASEAN leaders on South China Sea

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged Southeast Asian leaders during the 27th ASEAN-China Summit in Laos to take measures against China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea.

Marcos highlighted that Beijing's behavior disregards international law and standards, citing a recent incident where Philippine vessels faced harassment from Chinese coast guard ships using water cannons and ramming techniques within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

The president renewed his call for faster negotiations on a binding Code of Conduct (COC) to manage differences and reduce tensions in the South China Sea, noting that despite positive developments, tensions remain high.

Speaker Martin Romualdez expressed support for Marcos' efforts, emphasizing the importance of finalizing the COC to ensure regional peace and stability.

Romualdez noted that defending territorial integrity is crucial for protecting Filipino fishermen's livelihoods and the nation's food supply.