The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Thursday, May 29, that the Philippines will continue to conduct maritime security operations and research activities in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), which includes the Pag-asa Island and Pag-asa Cays, despite claims by China.
In a statement from the office of DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza, the DFA reiterated the Philippines’ jurisdiction on the KIG features in the South China Sea.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs rejects and refutes the recent statements of the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Manila regarding Pag-asa Island and the Pag-asa Cays, and the activities of Philippine authorities in the area,” the…