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Ph lauds G7 support in sea dispute with China
By Nidz Godino
"Philippines welcomes G7 Foreign Ministers' reiteration of their collective commitment to rule of law and to rules-based maritime order anchored on 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea ,UNCLOS," Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in statement Philippines welcomed Group of Seven (G7)'s support in rejecting China's baseless and expansive claims, and use of water cannons against Philippine vessels in South China Sea.
In strongly worded statement, G7 foreign ministers criticized China's "dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia in South China Sea" and use of "water cannons against Philippine vessels", first time seven of the world's most powerful democracies specifically referred to China's use of water cannons on Philippine resupply missions near Ayungin Shoal.
"We appreciate G7's support in rejecting China's baseless and expansive claims, and their call for China to cease its illegal activities, particularly its use of coast guard and maritime militia in South China Sea that engage in dangerous maneuvers and use of water cannons against Philippine vessels," DFA said.
G7 communiqué dated April 19 came after their Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Capri, Italy. G7 includes Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom and United States. European Union is "non-enumerated" member.
DFA "duly note and appreciates G7's reaffirmation that 2016 Arbitral Award is significant milestone and useful basis for peaceful management and resolution of differences at sea."
G7 said "there is no legal basis for China's expansive maritime claims in South China Sea, and we oppose China's militarization, coercive and intimidation activities in South China Sea."
Philippines, firmly committed to UNCLOS and binding Arbitral Award of 2016, shares G7's vision of stable and secure Indo-Pacific region, and stands firm against any actions undermine international security and stability.
"We want to see South China Sea of peace, stability and prosperity, and cessation of interference, obstruction and harassment of Philippines' legal activities within our recognized maritime entitlements," DFA said.
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Admission of former president Rodrigo Duterte of his secret deal with China involving BRP Sierra Madre stationed at Ayungin Shoal would all more warrant investigation from Senate, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said.
"Duterte has already admitted that is big crime of his in our country," Hontiveros said in interview.
The senator described as "unacceptable" Duterte's secret deal with China involving Sierra Madre, was to allow resupply missions, but not outpost's repair.
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