West PH Sea: DND rebuts China sovereignty claim over Pag-asa, Lawak islands

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of National Defense (DND) on Wednesday rejected recent statements from China’s defense ministry asserting sovereignty over features in the West Philippine Sea, including Pag-asa Island and Lawak Island, saying these remain under Philippine administration and jurisdiction under international law. In a statement, the DND said the features are part of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), which the Philippines administers as the Municipality of Kalayaan in Palawan province. “The legitimate exercise of Philippine authority in these areas, including the conduct of improvement and development activities, is intended to support the welfare, safety, and livelihood of Filipinos […]... Keep on reading: West PH Sea: DND rebuts China sovereignty claim over Pag-asa, Lawak islands

Original source: Philippine Daily Inquirer