The National Maritime Council (NMC) has expressed support for Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. following China’s decision to impose entry and business restrictions on him and his family over his statements on the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement on Sunday, the NMC said Teodoro has consistently performed his duties in line with Philippine law, national policy, and the country’s legitimate interests.
It stressed that the defense chief’s pronouncements on the West Philippine Sea are grounded on the Philippine Constitution, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the 2016 Arbitral Award invalidating China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.
“His statements and actions concerning the West Philippine Sea reflect the Philippines’ commitment to uphold its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction,” the NMC said.
The council also underscored that government officials have the responsibility to protect and advance national interests within legal bounds and in service of the Filipino people, calling such actions an expression of sovereignty.
It added that it remains committed to supporting lawful, peaceful, and coordinated government efforts to advance the country’s maritime rights and interests, while reaffirming support for dialogue, stability, and a rules-based maritime order anchored on international law.
China earlier announced a ban on Teodoro and his family from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, and restricted Chinese individuals and entities from conducting transactions with them, citing his statements on the West Philippine Sea.