Ministry of Defense: Huangyan Island has never been within the territory of the Philippines
On the afternoon of February 10, Colonel Jiang Bin, Deputy Director of the Ministry of National Defense News Bureau and spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, released a statement regarding recent military-related issues.
Reporter: According to reports, a spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard stated that to implement the so-called "New Fisherman Hero Program," the Philippine Coast Guard has deployed ships and aircraft to provide security for Philippine fishing boats operating near Huangyan Island, protecting Philippine sovereignty rights and the livelihoods of fishermen. What is your comment on this?
Jiang Bin: Huangyan Island is an inherent territory of China and has never been within the territorial scope of the Philippines. The relevant departments of the Philippine side are using deceptive and inciting means to push innocent fishermen to the front lines as tools for infringement provocation, even artificially creating friction to hype and smear China, which fully demonstrates that they do not care about the livelihoods and well-being of fishermen or even their safety. We advise the Philippine side to stop its unscrupulous political manipulation and self-directed maritime farce. China will continue to exercise sovereignty and jurisdiction over Huangyan Island and its surrounding waters in accordance with the law, resolutely defending national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. (Ministry of National Defense release)
The Chinese Defense Ministry stated that Huangyan Island is an inherent part of China and has never been within Philippine territory. On February 10, a spokesperson criticized the Philippines for allegedly using its fishermen to provoke tensions and emphasized China's commitment to defending its sovereignty over the area.
- The Chinese Defense Ministry asserts that Huangyan Island has always been Chinese territory and is not within Philippine territory.
- The Philippines Coast Guard is reportedly providing security for its fishermen near Huangyan Island as part of a new initiative.
- The Chinese spokesperson criticized the Philippines for using fishermen as tools for provocation and creating friction.
- China will continue to exercise sovereignty and jurisdiction over Huangyan Island and its surrounding waters.