The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines reiterated on Saturday that China does not recognize the 2016 Hague ruling on the South China Sea, dismissing it as “a political circus dressed up as a legal action,” ABS-CBN News reported.
China, advocating for bilateral discussions to resolve South China Sea disputes, accused the Philippines of violating the 2012 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. The embassy stated, “The Philippines broke the declaration by filing an arbitration case instead of pursuing consultations and negotiations between sovereign states directly concerned.”
The 2016 ruling invalidated China’s extensive nine-dash line claim over the South China Sea, which includes the West Philippine Sea within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. It also established that Bajo de Masinloc (Panatag, Scarborough Shoal) is a traditional fishing ground where China should not block access.
“The arbitral tribunal in the South China Sea Arbitration exercised its jurisdiction ultra vires and made an illegitimate ruling. The award thus rendered is illegal, null and void. China does not accept or recognize it and will never accept any claim or action thereon,” stated the Chinese Embassy.
In response, the Philippines has sought support from allies, including the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan. These countries have criticized China’s aggressive maneuvers in the West Philippine Sea and emphasized that the 2016 ruling is binding, despite China’s objections. The Chinese Embassy described this collective stance as a “small circle of the West ganging up against China.”
On Friday, the Philippines commemorated the 8th anniversary of the Hague ruling, with officials vowing to “stand our ground” in the West Philippine Sea. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) declared the arbitral award a “testament to our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the peaceful settlement of disputes.” Despite “unlawful actions which have caused serious incidents” in the South China Sea, the Philippines has maintained its dedication to peace.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. reaffirmed the country’s resolve, saying, “We strive every day to safeguard the territory and sovereign rights of our country so that the Republic of the Philippines, not any other nation, benefits from the natural resources recognized under international law.”
Amid rising tensions with China, the Philippines has intensified its engagement with the US and other nations, conducting joint maritime exercises. Earlier this week, the Philippines and Japan signed a Reciprocal Access Agreement, allowing troops from either country to visit, train, and hold joint exercises.