22/10/2026
𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐚𝐬𝐤 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐚
19 October 2026 | Manila, Philippines
The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) condemns the recurring unlawful activities of Chinese vessels in Philippine maritime zones, including unauthorized fishing and reported waste dumping within the territorial sea of Kota Island, unauthorized fishing operations near Lawak Island, suspected marine scientific research without Philippine consent off Batanes, and dangerous maneuvers and interference with lawful and routine Philippine maritime activities.
These actions threaten the safety of Filipino personnel, undermine the livelihoods of Filipino fisherfolk, and interfere with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of its maritime rights. Their recurrence demands an end to conduct that disregards international law and puts regional stability at risk.
Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Philippines exercises sovereignty over its territory and territorial sea, and sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. Unauthorized fishing within Philippine territorial waters and the exploitation of resources in our EEZ without proper authorization violate the Philippine laws and maritime rights. Marine scientific research in the EEZ and continental shelf requires the consent of the Philippines as the coastal State. Dangerous maneuvers and interference with lawful maritime activities must likewise be assessed against applicable international obligations. The 2016 Arbitral Award rejected the legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims insofar as they exceed the limits established by UNCLOS.
China’s continued assertions cannot override the Convention or erase the legal effect of the Arbitral Award. Repeated deployments and unilateral claims cannot create maritime entitlements that international law does not recognize, nor can they diminish the rights that belong to the Filipino people.
The NTF-WPS commends the Philippine Coast Guard, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other concerned agencies for their vigilance and professionalism in monitoring, documenting, and responding to these incidents. The Philippines will continue to protect its maritime interests through lawful operations, diplomatic engagement, and appropriate legal measures.
International and national law defines the rights of the Philippines, not the unilateral claims of another State. China must respect the law, cease its unlawful activities, and act in accordance with its international obligations. # # #
