The Chinese Foreign Ministry strongly criticized the Philippines for its explicit claim of constructing a permanent structure on Ren’ai Jiao (Ren’ai Reef) in the South China Sea, labeling it a significant breach of promises, policy changes, and the disruption of Ren’ai Jiao’s uninhabited status.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a routine press conference, declared that the Philippines’ action seriously violates China’s sovereignty, international law, and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. He emphasized that China will firmly respond to any infringement or provocation, resolutely safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.
The Philippines’ Armed Forces spokesperson, Colonel Medel Aguilar, had earlier stated that the Philippine government is contemplating building a permanent shelter for fisherfolk on Ren’ai Jiao. Former Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio supported the idea, suggesting civilian structures like a lighthouse or marine research center, claiming the area is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
China rebutted these assertions, asserting indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands, including Ren’ai Jiao, in compliance with international law. The Ren’ai Jiao, according to China, should remain devoid of people or facilities, as per the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, complicating the situation due to the Philippines’ provocations.