During the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ unwavering resolve to uphold peace, stability and the rule of law in the region — especially in the West Philippine Sea and the Korean Peninsula.
President Marcos voiced serious concern over recent incidents in the West Philippine Sea, citing what he described as “dangerous manoeuvres and coercive actions” that interfere with legitimate Philippine activities. According to him, these actions run counter to the principles of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He emphasised the Philippines’ continuing commitment to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and to achieving a substantive, legally-consistent Code of Conduct for the South China Sea (COC) that will govern parties’ behaviour at sea.
At the summit he also raised the situation in the Korean Peninsula, condemning the continued ballistic-missile launches by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). The President renewed the Philippines’ call for the DPRK to cease these activities, comply with its international obligations — including relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions — and engage in peaceful, constructive dialogue.
In his discussion with Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, President Marcos also addressed humanitarian concerns, namely the long-standing case of abducted Japanese citizens, and reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to supporting a just and lasting resolution.
