Philippines does not need Chinese permission to operate at Bajo de Masinloc — DFAThe Chinese Coast Guard has installed a floating barrier in the southern portion of Bajo de Masinloc, a traditional fishing ground off the coast of Zambales. MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines does not need to seek approval from another country to operate in its territorial sea, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Thursday. “There is no obligation for the Philippines as the sovereign state to seek the approval of another when navigating its own territorial sea,” the statement added. Citing international law, the DFA has urged Beijing to withdraw its vessels from the West Philippine Sea. Despite the 2016 arbitral ruling favoring the Philippines, China does not acknowledge Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea and its EEZ.

Source: Philippine Star November 03, 2023 05:52 UTC