Philippines Accuses China of Double Standards in West Philippine Sea Dispute

China’s Double Standards in the West Philippine Sea

A member of the Philippine House of Representatives has criticized China for applying double standards regarding its actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Representative Robert Ace Barbers emphasized China’s expansionist policies and its apparent disregard for the Philippines’ rights in the region.

Barbers pointed out that while China demands respect for its self-claimed “nine-dash line” and “eleven-dash line,” it continues to intrude upon the Philippines’ 200-mile economic zone. He argued that China has ignored the ruling from the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which favored the Philippines in July 2016.

In a statement, Barbers condemned China’s behavior, labeling it as bullying and interference. He noted recent protests from the Chinese government following President Marcos’ signing of two new maritime laws, aimed at reaffirming the Philippines’ rights over its maritime territories.

Barbers further stated that China continuously disrespects the Philippines’ claims despite the arbitral ruling from The Hague, which rejected China’s historic claims in the WPS. He emphasized that UNCLOS supports the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone.

Despite China’s objections, President Marcos has reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to uphold its sovereignty in the WPS. Meanwhile, China has urged Manila to respect its territorial sovereignty and to stop taking unilateral actions.