Manila, Philippines – In a press briefing on Friday, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Angelica Escalona highlighted the possibility of the finalization of the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea.
The Philippines is set to chair the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026.
Therefore, the Philippines is positive that the signing of the COC will be completed next year.
The Code of Conduct aims to build the 2002 Declaration of Conduct in the South China Sea and lay down guidelines for resolving disputes in the South China Sea.
The pre-departure briefing is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ‘s attendance at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where the Philippines is expected to push for the completion of the Code of Conduct during its leadership of the regional bloc.
The ASEAN 2026 will also focus on discussing and strengthening defense, security, trade, and investment among members of the ASEAN regional bloc.—Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News