The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reaffirmed the Philippines’ sovereignty over its territories, citing international law and key treaties, amid recent misinformation.
In a statement released on Tuesday, October 7, the DFA underscored its sovereignty over its archipelago and other territories, including Bajo de Masinloc (BdM) and the high-tide features of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG).
“The Philippines underscores that its sovereignty over its archipelago and other territories, including Bajo de Masinloc (BdM) and the high-tide features of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), is incontrovertible and firmly founded on international law, legal principles, effective control, and recognition through international treaties and agreements,” the statement reads.
This announcement comes in response to what the DFA describes as ‘misleading’ claims by certain countries regarding the extent of Philippine territory.
“Some countries have been articulating an erroneous opinion that intentionally misreads certain treaties upon which the extent of Philippine territory is partly based,” it added.
The DFA cited international laws and key treaties, noting that these ‘are clear on the legal bases and extent of the Philippine national territory.’
The agency further pledged to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The Philippines will continue to remain vigilant against attempts to misinform the general public. It will continue to assert and preserve its territorial integrity, and strongly uphold its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in accordance with international law,” it stated.
