MANILA 05 May 2024 – The DFA is not aware of any “new model” arrangement being referred to by the Chinese Embassy with regard to Ayungin Shoal. The DFA reiterates its firm position that the Philippines has not entered into any agreement abandoning its sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, including on the Ayungin Shoal. On issues of such importance, any agreements or arrangements would be made only if authorized at the highest level of government.
That the Secretary of National Defense and the National Security Adviser have both denied the existence of any informal arrangements on the Ayungin Shoal shows the untruthfulness of China’s narrative. China should desist from disseminating such disinformation or insinuations against Philippine officials, which create confusion among the Filipino public and distract from the real issues created by China’s unfounded claims, and illegal and aggressive actions in our waters.
The Philippines has been earnest in seeking ways to reduce tensions with China through established diplomatic channels. If China is serious about properly managing the differences at sea, we urge China to favorably consider the standing Philippine invitation to convene the next meeting of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM-SCS) as soon as possible. END.
