The Philippines has expressed objection to the "unlawful live fire drills" by Taiwan off Ligaw Island, saying it "raises tension" in the South China Sea.
Through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Philippines on Tuesday, June 28, stated "strong objection" over the activity, which it deemed "illegal."
"The Philippines expresses its strong objection over the unlawful live fire drills to be conducted by Taiwan (China) on 28 to 29 June 2022 within the vicinity of Ligaw Island," the DFA said in a post on Twitter.
(1/2) The Philippines expresses its strong objection over the unlawful live fire drills to be conducted by Taiwan (China) on 28 to 29 June 2022 within the vicinity of Ligaw Island.@teddyboylocsin
— DFA Philippines (@DFAPHL) June 28, 2022
It raised concern that the activity "raises tensions" and makes the situation in the South China Sea complicated.
"his illegal activity raises tensions and complicates the situation in the South China Sea," it stressed.
Ligaw Island also known as Itu Aba is located 39 nautical miles from Pagasa Island. The DFA noted that it is an integral part of the Kalayaan Island Group over which the Philippines has sovereignty.