China is ready for talks on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, but Panatag or Scarborough Shoal off Zambales will not be covered by the COC. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Robespierre Bolivar said the foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China have agreed on a three-step process or initiative for the talks on the COC to push through this year. The Philippines and China both claim Panatag Shoal. China said the dispute will only be addressed directly by parties involved through consultations.

Lee-Brago, P. (2017, August 7). China: sea code won't cover Panatag Shoal. Philippine Star, pp. 1, 8.