Manila Philippines — Disputes and tensions in the West Philippine Sea were discussed between the two officials of the Philippines and China during the 9th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM).
This is part of a series of preparatory meetings that took place in Manila and a result of the 8th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism held in Shanghai, earlier this year.
It is said that Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong had a frank and constructive discussion related to the situation in the South China Sea.
Undersecretary Lazaro insisted to his counterpart that the Philippines will continue to relentlessly protect the interest and maintain sovereignty, rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea.
“Undersecretary Lazaro underscored to her counterpart that the Philippines will be relentless in protecting its interests and upholding its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea,” according to the DFA statement.
Amid ongoing tensions and tensions in the South China Sea, the two officials said they recognized the need to restore trust, build confidence and create conducive conditions for more productive dialogue and interaction.
Both Manila and Beijing’s positions in Ayungin Shoal were discussed and the two countries commits to de-escalte the tension without prejudice both positions.
The two countries also agreed to continue discussions to find a resolution on the issues that must be mutually-accepted.
“The two sides discussed their respective positions on Ayungin Shoal and affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions without prejudice to their respective positions… Both sides agreed to continue discussions to find a mutually-acceptable resolution to the issues,” added the DFA.
In a statement shared by the Chinese embassy, China urged the Philippines to stop any kind of maritime violations and provocations.
Along with encouraging the Philippines to comply with the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).
Also encouraging the Philippines to be part of the management of the Ren’ai Jiao or Second Thomas Shoal situation.
“The Chinese side urges the Philippine side to stop maritime infringement and provocation at once, earnestly abide by the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), return to the right track of properly handling disputes through dialogue and consultation, jointly manage the situation at Ren’ai Jiao with the Chinese side, promote the easing and cooling down of the maritime situation, and stabilize China-Philippines relations from further deterioration,” said the Chinese Embassy in Manila in a statement .
In the recent harassment of Chinese Coast Guard personnel against Philippine military troops in Ayungin Shoal, the DFA has once again filed a diplomatic protest.
This year the Philippines has filed more than 30 protests against China.
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