China Shrugs Off ‘West Philippine Sea’ Terminology Amid Ongoing Tensions
China has reiterated its dismissal of the term “West Philippine Sea,” asserting that it does not recognize any unilateral renaming of maritime territories. The response came after increased global awareness and usage of the Philippines’ preferred nomenclature. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that China’s claims remain unchanged, regardless of how other nations label the contested waters. The statement underscores Beijing’s firm stance despite mounting international support for Manila’s maritime assertions.
Source: Newsweek
Google Maps Now Shows ‘West Philippine Sea’—China Responds Coolly
Google has updated its maps to reflect “West Philippine Sea” in areas aligned with the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), prompting a muted reaction from China. The update follows years of Philippine lobbying and public campaigns, marking a digital recognition of sovereignty claims. However, Chinese officials called the change “irrelevant” to their territorial position, highlighting the ongoing disconnect between public diplomacy, digital representation, and geopolitical reality.
Source: Radio Free Asia
PH Raises Maritime Issues in Code of Conduct Talks
The Philippines raised its concerns over Chinese activities in the South China Sea during recent Code of Conduct negotiations with ASEAN. Philippine representatives cited harassment of Filipino vessels and emphasized the need for a legally binding and enforceable agreement. The move is part of broader diplomatic efforts to rally regional consensus and assert the country’s rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), while countering perceived Chinese aggression.
Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer
China Unfazed by Digital Push to Rename Disputed Sea Areas
China has played down the significance of Google’s naming update, reaffirming that mapping services “do not change facts.” The official reaction mirrors previous dismissals of symbolic acts supporting the Philippines’ maritime claims. Despite growing support for Manila’s nomenclature and claims in international discourse, Beijing maintains its narrative of historical ownership, signaling continued resistance to international pressure.
Source: Anadolu Agency