China claimed the Philippines would be violating international law if it would push through with its plan to build a permanent structure in the Ayungin Shoal, a feature within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Mao Ning, spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, said the plan to construct a fishermen's shelter in Ayungin Shoal, which was bared by Armed Forces of the Philippinbes (AFP) spokesman Medel Aguilar, “would be another major move” by Manila to go back on its words and change its policy.
Mao said it would also undermine the uninhabited and facility-free status of the shoal, which she said was agreed upon through the Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).
“This will severely infringe on China’s sovereignty, violate international law and the DOC,” she said in her regular press briefing on Friday, Dec. 30.
Mao warned China will take resolute measures against any violation of its supposed sovereignty and provocation.
She said China will also “firmly safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests."
Mao maintained that the Ayungin Shoal (locally named Ren’ai Jiao) is part of China by unilaterally citing that it has been “established in the long course of history and is consistent with international law.”
She also rejected the arbitral ruling, which is based on international law that affirmed the Philippines sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, by saying it is illegal, null and void.