Kuala lumpur: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued a strong stance against coercive actions in the South China Sea, pointing out in a leaders’ meeting between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that ‘cooperation cannot exist alongside coercion.’

According to Philippines News Agency, in an intervention at the 28th ASEAN-China Summit with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Marcos said Manila is open to engage both the 11-member bloc and Beijing ‘in diplomacy and mutually beneficial cooperation.’ He emphasized that partnerships must be rooted in ‘mutual respect for sovereign equality and adherence to international law as guiding principles.’

He reiterated his call for self-restraint after expressing concern over persistent dangerous actions and harassment against Filipino fishers and Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos rejected Beijing’s reported plan to turn Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) into a ‘nature reserve,’ stating that the move ‘has no legal basis or effect, clearly disregards international law, and infringes on the Philippines’ sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction.’

Despite continuing tensions, Marcos said Manila remains committed to managing differences constructively, citing the Philippines’ Provisional Understanding with China, which allowed successful and incident-free rotation and resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. He noted this as a demonstration of how effective diplomacy and candid dialogue can ease tensions and produce positive outcomes.

Marcos also pledged that Manila will work with ASEAN in finalizing an effective Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea that is consistent with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He stressed that the COC should not diminish the rights and interests of third parties.

At the 20th East Asia Summit, ASEAN chair and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that ASEAN wants issues in the South China Sea resolved internally. The COC is currently under negotiations between China and ASEAN and is intended to serve as a set of rules governing the behavior of parties in the South China Sea.

Pending a COC, Marcos suggested that ASEAN and China explore cooperative activities and mechanisms to prevent risks of incidents at sea within the framework of the 2002 Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. These measures include allowing artisanal fisherfolk access to their traditional fishing grounds without interference and arrangements limiting activities in uninhabited features. He also proposed possible scientific cooperation to ensure maritime safety and mitigate risks to marine biodiversity.