Danish envoy backs Phl’s push for rules-based order amid WPS conflict

An envoy from Denmark has expressed its support to the Philippines in promoting a rules-based order and international rule of law in light of the recent collision incident involving Beijing and Manila vessels, in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. 

In a statement on Wednesday, Department of National Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Denmark's ambassador to the Philippines, Michael Skjold Mellbin, met with Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to tackle the ongoing defense cooperation between the Philippines and Denmark. 

Among the discussed topics was the recent incident in Ayungin shoal wherein Mellbin stressed that such events have "put the lives of Filipino sailors at risk" and "undermines regional security."

Further, Mellbin has invited the the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard for a study visit in Copenhagen, Denmark to avail of the "exchange of insights on the law of the sea." 

He said asked the PN and PCG to provide inputs on Denmark's naval, coastal, and marine defenses, technologies, and doctrines. 

Teodoro welcomed the invitation and described it as a" good opportunity in light of current defense realities" in the WPS. 

Andolong said the possible cooperation between the Philippines and Denmark on cyber defense and information technology was also discussed during their meeting.

Also, Teodoro and Mellbin agreed to put a premium on countering disinformation and proactively addressing threats in the information ecosystem.

"The Danish ambassador acknowledged the Philippines' support in upholding the rules-based international order, in relation to the ongoing war in Ukraine," Andolong said.  

"Both sides looked forward to concretizing Philippines-Denmark cooperation as global security challenges persist and become more unpredictable and volatile," he added.