The Philippines on Tuesday welcomed Washington’s plan to send ships near China’s man-made but disputed islands in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), noting that it is within the concept of international law. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs ( DFA) said it is the “paramount concern” of all nations “to safeguard freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea. “If the US decides to send naval vessels within 12 nautical miles of the reclaimed low-tide elevation features in be consistent with international law and a rules-based order for the region,” the department added.

Bauzon, B. V. (2015, October 14). PH welcomes US ships in disputed sea. The Manila Times, pp. A1, A2.