China continues to blame PH for provoking WPS dispute

A Philippine Coast Guard inflexible hull inflatable boat passes by the Japanese Coast Guard Akitsushima (PLH-32) throughout a trilateral Coast Guard drill of america, Japan, and Philippines, close to the waters of the disputed South China See in Bataan province, Philippines, Tuesday, June 6, 2023. AP file photograph

MANILA, Philippines — China continues accountable the Philippines for the dispute within the West Philippine Sea, saying the latter’s change of coverage, place, and its refusal to “honor its dedication” violate worldwide legislation.

In a daily press briefing, Chinese language Overseas Ministry Mao Ning stated the “latest developments” within the South China Sea are brought on by the Philippines’ deliberate infringement of China’s sovereignty and provocations.

“The accountability lies with the Philippines. China will resolutely defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and pursuits,” Mao stated on Tuesday night.

Mao’s assertion got here after Col. Medel Aguilar, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson, stated that the Philippines shouldn’t be scary battle within the West Philippine Sea — a direct response to China’s accusation that Manila is encroaching on Beijing’s territory.

“We hope that the Philippines will make a clever alternative, return to the precise monitor of correctly dealing with disputes by way of dialogue and session, and work with China to correctly deal with and handle the scenario at sea,” stated Mao.

READ: PH not scary battle in West Philippine Sea — AFP

INQUIRER.web has sought the Division of Overseas Affairs’ touch upon the matter, however has but to reply as of press time.

China’s declare over a lot of the South China Sea, together with the West Philippine Sea, has lengthy been rejected by a historic arbitral ruling in 2016.

READ: PH ‘restrained, accountable’ in West PH Sea row — Nat’l Safety Council

Mao’s essential level of argument, nevertheless,  is backed by the Philippines’ alleged promise to tow away the BRP Sierra Madre grounded at Ayungin Shoal. China asserted that the Philippines’ persistence is what has triggered stress between the 2 nations.

READ: PH wins arbitration case over South China Sea

However China’s declare was already denied by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. who stated that ought to any settlement exist, he rescinds it.