Japan ‘highly appreciates’ PH action in West Philippine Sea

National flags of the Philippines and Japan (right). INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs Kamikawa Yoko said her government “highly appreciates” the Philippines’ actions in the West Philippine Sea.

According to Kamikawa, the Philippines’ behavior follows the rule of law and promotes peace in the region.

The Japanese envoy also said her government will continue to coordinate with the international community to keep a “free and open international order.”

Kamikawa’s remarks came as the Philippines marked its victory in the case it lodged against China’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea before the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

On Friday, July 12, Manila celebrated the 8th anniversary of the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated Beijing’s position that it owns almost the entire South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea.

READ: PH marks 8th anniversary of arbitral ruling on West Philippine Sea

Many countries and international leaders have recognized the arbitral award, but China has continued to ignore it.

“Based on this recognition, Japan highly appreciates the position of the Government of the Philippines, which has consistently complied with the award and shown its commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea,” Kamikawa said in a statement.

“Japan will continue working in coordination with the international community such as ASEAN Member States and the United States to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law […],” she added.

READ: PH wins arbitration case over South China Sea

Japan likewise expressed concern over the repeated hostile actions of China within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, which have already resulted in damage or harm to Filipino vessels and troops.

A recent incident in the West Philippine Sea even caused the thumb of a Philippine Navy sailor, Seaman First Class Jeffrey Facundo, to be severed.

Facundo lost his finger after Chinese Coast Guard vessels rammed Philippine boats that were on a resupply mission to the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

“Japan renews its objection to maritime claims in the South China Sea that are inconsistent with UNCLOS,” Kamikawa added.

“On this occasion, Japan also reiterates serious concern over repeated actions which obstruct the freedom of navigation and increase regional tensions including recent dangerous actions that resulted in damage to Filipino vessels and injuries to Filipinos onboard,” she continued.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said Friday it will “move forward” to ensure peace, security, and prosperity in the West Philippine Sea.