Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday announced that the Philippines, set to chair the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, will work constructively with China and fellow member states to promote a 'legally binding' Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea. In a statement, the DFA highlighted the Philippines' commitment to ensuring that the South China Sea remains a 'sea of peace, stability, and cooperation.'
According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA emphasized that the COC should align with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The statement clarified that the COC should not establish a special regional regime, should not diminish the rights and interests of third-party states, and should effectively govern behavior at sea. The department also noted the need for lasting peace and stability in the South China Sea, urging all countries to fulfill their obligations under international law, especially UNCLOS.
Countries have been advised to exercise self-restraint and avoid actions that could escalate tensions at sea. The DFA's statement follows remarks by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who emphasized the need for solid institutional support for peace and stability, and urged the Philippines, as ASEAN chair, to play a positive role in the region.
The DFA reiterated the Philippines' responsible approach to the South China Sea issue, highlighting its commitment to credible and professional stewardship of the ASEAN chairship. The ongoing COC discussions involve new strategies, including frequent face-to-face meetings, to expedite negotiations and address four key 'milestone issues.' These issues include establishing the connection between the COC and the non-binding Declaration of Conduct (DOC) on the South China Sea, determining the legal binding nature of the final document, its geographical scope, and defining terms such as self-restraint.