Marcos determined to defend

exploration.

China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, including parts of the West Philippine Sea, along with its potential offshore oil and gas deposits and traditional fishing grounds.

A 2016 ruling by an international arbitral tribunal recognized the Philippines’ sovereign right to fish and use resources in the region, invalidating China’s sweeping historical claims to the area.

Meanwhile, China’s Defense Ministry issued a statement urging the Philippines to “immediately stop provocative actions” that could escalate tension in the disputed waters.

“We urge the Philippine side not to further walk down the wrong path and immediately stop any provocative actions that may escalate the disputes or complicate the situation.

“At the same time, we suggest that some non-regional countries stop their rhetoric and actions that embolden and support the provocative and risky acts of the Philippines and refrain from being a disruptor in the South China Sea,” said Chinese Defense Spokesman Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang at a regular press briefing on friday.

There have been so far 10 confrontational incidents between the two sides in the disputed waters.

The latest and most notable happened on March 5 when Chinese coast guard vessels sideswiped a Philippine patrol ship.

The Chinese used water cannons against another boat carrying a Filipino admiral and provisions for Filipino soldiers stationed at Ayungin Shoal.

Marcos said he was looking forward to his meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on March 19 to discuss security matters.

Blinken’s second Philippine visit was scheduled on March 18 to 19. He was scheduled to meet Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to discuss bilateral ties and shared commitment to protect the interests of both countries.