President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. anticipated China's objections to the Philippines' new laws—the Philippine Maritime Zones Law and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law.
This statement was made by the Marcos after China warned that the two laws could further escalate tensions in the waters.
However, Marcos stood firm, emphasizing the need to continually protect the country's sovereignty and sovereign rights.
He pointed out that the two laws are essential because they define the country's territorial boundaries and jurisdiction.
“It serves a purpose that we define closely what those boundaries are,” Marcos said on Monday in an ambush interview with the media.
Initially, the Chinese Foreign Ministry referred to the Philippines' decision as illegal and invalid, and summoned the Philippine ambassador to China.
The Philippine Maritime Zones Act will establish designated areas within the country’s territory, including maritime zones that remain under Philippine jurisdiction.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act seeks to create a system of sea lanes within Philippine waters, allowing foreign vessels to pass through.
