01/09/2026
STATEMENT OF THE NATIONAL MARITIME COUNCIL ON THE CHINESE MINISTRY OF NATIONAL DEFENSE REMARKS ON AYUNGIN SHOAL
Manila, Philippines | September 1, 2026
The National Maritime Council takes note of the recent statement of the Chinese Ministry of National Defense concerning Ayungin Shoal and BRP Sierra Madre.
The Philippines’ position is clear and remains unchanged: Our actions in the West Philippine Sea are guided by international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
The Award determined that Ayungin Shoal or Second Thomas Shoal is a low-tide elevation (LTE) within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. As an LTE, it is not land territory that can generate its own maritime zones, but instead it forms part of the EEZ and continental shelf of the Philippines. The Award is final and binding on the Philippines and China with respect to the matters it resolved.
The Philippines, therefore, firmly rejects the characterization of Ayungin Shoal as part of China’s territory and the characterization of BRP Sierra Madre as an “illegally grounded” vessel. The presence of BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal remains to be consistent with the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of the Philippines within its EEZ and continental shelf.
The Philippines will continue to support and ensure the safety and welfare of its personnel and undertake necessary and lawful activities.
The Philippines remain committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes, compliance with rulings of international tribunals, the rule of law, and the maintenance of peace and stability in the region. We will continue to exercise our rights responsibly and peacefully while avoiding actions that may lead to unnecessary tension or miscalculation.
The Philippine government's policy is straightforward: we seek peace, but we will continue to uphold our rights under international law. (END)
