PH military says no proof China seized any cays near Pag-asa Island
Personnel from the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police Maritime Group raise the Philippine flag on Pag-asa Cay during a maritime operation on April 27, 2025. — Photo from the National Task Force – West Philippine Sea
MANILA, Philippines — There is no evidence supporting claims that the China Coast Guard asserted control or seized any cays of Pag-asa Island, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The AFP made the affirmation, which it said was based “on routine maritime operations and report verification conducted by the Western Command.”
The statement also came after the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Philippine Navy, and the National Security Council debunked China’s claims.
READ: PCG: Maritime op at Pag-asa Cay proves China’s claim is false
“The AFP firmly affirmed that there is no evidence to support claims that the China Coast Guard asserted control or seized any cays of Pag-asa Island. This affirmation was made based on routine maritime operations and report verification conducted by the Western Command,” the military said on Monday.
On Sunday the Philippine authorities conducted Inter-Agency Maritime Operation at Pag-asa Cay 1, Cay 2, and Cay 3 and their surrounding waters “to maintain the Philippines’ lawful exercise of maritime domain awareness and effective control of the cays and its surrounding waters.”
“The cays all lie well within 12 nautical miles of Pag-asa Island. Pag-asa Cay 2 is sovereign Philippine territory, while the rest of the cays are low-tide elevations that form part of the territorial sea and seabed of Pag-asa Island,” the AFP said.
“The sovereignty of the Philippines over these cays are firmly established under international law. The AFP remains steadfast in its commitment to defend the national interest, uphold international law, and protect Philippine sovereignty. Together with partner agencies, we will continue to conduct lawful, peaceful, and regular operations to safeguard our maritime domain and ensure stability in the region,” it added.
