The National Maritime Council (NMC) on Saturday criticized China’s disinformation efforts, following reports picked up by Western media stating that Beijing had taken control of Sandy Cay (Pag-asa Cay 2), a sandbar near Pag-asa Island within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

In a statement, the NMC reiterated the country’s strong commitment to safeguarding its extensive maritime domain. It vowed to stand firm against false claims undermining its legitimate exercise of sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over its territory.

The council also expressed concern that the Chinese government is utilizing its state-controlled media to spread disinformation, aiming to deceive both its “own people and the international community” about the illegality of its actions in the West Philippine Sea.

“The alleged seizure of Pag-asa Cay 2 (Sandy Cay), an integral part of the Philippine national territory in the West Philippine Sea, was a clear example of the disinformation activities of the Chinese government, where it made it appear that China has effective control of the cay by displaying its flag and conducting waste collection,” it said.

Firm in protecting domain

“The Philippines is firm in protecting its vast maritime domain, and is unwavering in fighting false allegations that detract from the country’s lawful exercise of its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction,” the NMC said.

The NMC noted the environmental degradation around Pag-asa Island and its cays was primarily caused by the persistent illegal presence of Chinese vessels in the area and the destructive effects of China’s large-scale artificial island construction at Zamora Reef (Subi Reef), a low-tide elevation within the territorial sea of Pag-asa Island and its cays.

It urged China to comply with its obligations under international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.

It also called for the proper implementation of the 2002 Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

“The Philippines will consistently pursue peaceful means for resolving disputes and constructive approaches to managing differences, while continuing its lawful and routine activities in the West Philippine Sea, consistent with its maritime entitlements under international law,” the NMC said.