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DFA: Coast Guard deal 'just might deter' Chinese acts in WPS

Philippine News Agency

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora
October 15, 2025, 6:19 pm

MANILA -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday conveyed its tacit support for a cooperation deal between the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), saying it "just might deter" the latter's aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In an interview on the sidelines of the 7th Katipunan Conference in Quezon City, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro was asked how a deal with the CCG - which the DFA has repeatedly called out for its increasingly coercive maritime activities - would benefit Manila's position in the area.

"Actually, it is that view na nga (even) that by forging cooperation, it just might deter (the actions)," she said.

"It is a possibility... but continuous discussions. The whole thing is its diplomacy and continuous dialogue."

Lazaro said it also answers what diplomacy can do beyond lodging numerous protests when an incident happens.

"Of course, the other government agencies, iba naman ang kanilang ginagawa (what they do is different). But, you know, DFA, there's a question of puro protest, puro protest (it's always protests). But this is the capability. This is what the foreign affairs can do," she added.

She said the two governments are still working toward a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the coast guards.

"(M)ay laman na 'yon (It already has substance). I think it's just a matter of time that there will be already a signing of the MOU," she said.

Meanwhile, in her keynote address at the forum, Lazaro emphasized that the Philippines is unwavering in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea and that its foreign policy remains anchored on three pillars, including the preservation of national security and sovereignty.

"And while the image of 'pillars' usually brings to mind stasis and permanence, our foreign policy strategy is actually dynamic, proactive, and responsive to the nation's needs," she said.

"It works in synergy with all the levers of state power - diplomacy, defense, the economy, and national development policy - in an interconnected and mutually reinforcing ecosystem. This synergy is crucial in order for the Philippines to effectively address the challenges in our current geopolitical climate." (PNA)