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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DFA takes diplomatic action over 'illegal' floating structure in Bajo de Masinloc

DFA takes diplomatic action over 'illegal' floating structure in Bajo de Masinloc

Philippine government vows continued action to protect sovereignty, maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea

Published Jun 9, 2026 02:39 pm

At A Glance

  • DFA says it has taken diplomatic action with China over the reported illegal floating structure in Bajo de Masinloc.
  • Philippine authorities confirmed the presence of a 6-by-6-meter platform equipped with an apparent antenna and personnel onboard.
  • The government reaffirmed its commitment to defending Philippine sovereignty and upholding international law in the West Philippine Sea.
Philippine authorities monitor a floating structure spotted in Bajo de Masinloc as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) pursues diplomatic action and reiterates the country's commitment to protecting its sovereignty and maritime rights. (DFA photo)
Philippine authorities monitor a floating structure spotted in Bajo de Masinloc as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) pursues diplomatic action and reiterates the country's commitment to protecting its sovereignty and maritime rights. (DFA photo)
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday, June 9, said it has undertaken “diplomatic action” with the government of China over the presence of what Philippine authorities described as an “illegal floating structure” in Bajo de Masinloc.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs has already undertaken appropriate diplomatic action with the government of the People’s Republic of China in connection with the illegal presence of this floating structure,” the DFA said in a statement.
The DFA also reaffirmed the country's commitment to protecting its sovereignty and maritime rights.
“The protection of Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction remains a paramount consideration,” the DFA said. “The Philippine Government will continue to take appropriate actions consistent with international law and in defense of the country's national interests,” it added.
The DFA said the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) confirmed reports earlier disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. regarding the floating installation located within the disputed shoal.
According to the NTF-WPS, aerial surveillance conducted by several government agencies verified the presence of a 6-by-6-meter floating structure equipped with what appears to be an antenna.
The latest imagery obtained by the AFP also showed personnel stationed on the platform, while Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) monitoring indicated that the structure remains within the shoal, with individuals observed on board.
The NTF-WPS said it is closely coordinating with relevant government agencies to monitor developments and assess the nature, purpose, and implications of the installation.
It added that inter-agency efforts are ongoing to establish a complete and accurate picture of the situation and determine any potential impact on Philippine maritime interests.
The task force reiterated the government's commitment to upholding the rules-based international order, particularly the provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the landmark 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China's expansive claims in the South China Sea.
The NTF-WPS likewise stressed that Bajo de Masinloc, also known internationally as Scarborough Shoal, is an “integral part of the Philippines and falls within the country's maritime zones” as recognized under international law.
Authorities urged the public to rely on official government sources for verified information, noting that further updates will be released as more details become available.

Related Tags

DFA diplomatic action Bajo de Masinloc West Philippine Sea Scarborough Shoal NTF-WPS
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