The Philippines on Wednesday called on China to withdraw an “illegal” floating platform and other structures placed in the Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said, asserting that the installations violate Philippine sovereignty and international law. BusinessWorld reported.
In a livestreamed press briefing, DFA Deputy Assistant Secretary Rogelio Villanueva Jr. said the Philippines has formally protested the presence of the floating structure, which it considers a violation of the country’s exclusive economic zone and the 2016 arbitral ruling. He urged China to immediately remove the platform to de-escalate tensions in the disputed area.
The move comes amid heightened maritime disputes in the South China Sea, with the Philippines repeatedly asserting its rights under international law. The DFA reiterated its commitment to diplomatic channels while maintaining its position against any unilateral actions that undermine Philippine sovereignty.