President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. continues to assert a resolute position on the West Philippine Sea, with Malacañang reiterating on Saturday that the principle of ‘what is ours is ours’ remains a key policy.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro highlighted the contrast between President Marcos’ approach to the WPS and that of former president Rodrigo Duterte, who was noted for a more accommodating stance towards China’s territorial claims.
During a radio interview, Castro explained, “Under Duterte’s leadership, disputes were minimal because we were more agreeable to China’s assertions.”
However, she emphasized that President Marcos distinctly diverges from this path, firmly defending the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea and within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Castro criticized the previous administration’s acquiescence, which reportedly allowed China to assert control over critical areas such as Sandy Cay, where Chinese vessels patrolled during Duterte’s administration.
“The former president’s approach seemed to lean towards making us a province,” Castro remarked.
Furthermore, she noted that Duterte halted construction activities on Sandy Cay under pressure from China’s opposition.
“We are definitely not a Chinese province, despite any former intentions. President Marcos is correcting this course, firmly stating our demands: China must withdraw its maritime claims. Our territories remain indisputably ours,” Castro concluded.