China warned that the Philippines will face consequences if Manila abuses Beijing’s “goodwill” as volunteers of a civilian-led coalition successfully reached Panatag Shoal and concluded their mission. The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday said China made a goodwill arrangement in 2016 for Filipino fishermen to fish with a small number of small fishing boats in the adjacent waters of Panatag Shoal, while Beijing continues to oversee and monitor their activities. “If the Philippines abuses China’s goodwill and infringes upon China’s territorial sovereignty and jurisdiction, we will defend our rights and take countermeasures in accordance with the law,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin.

Lee-Brago, P. (2024, May 17). China warns Philippines: Don’t abuse ‘goodwill’. The Philippine Star, p. 3.