Quezon city: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has expressed its support for a cooperation agreement between the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG), stating that it ‘just might deter’ China’s assertive activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

According to Philippines News Agency, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro discussed the potential benefits of the agreement during an interview at the 7th Katipunan Conference. Despite the DFA’s past criticisms of the CCG’s activities, Lazaro noted that the collaboration could serve as a deterrent to further aggressive actions. She emphasized the importance of diplomacy and continuous dialogue as tools beyond formal protests.

Lazaro mentioned ongoing efforts to finalize a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two coast guards. She indicated that the MOU is already substantial and anticipated its signing soon. In her keynote speech at the conference, Lazaro reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to its sovereignty over the WPS and highlighted the country’s foreign policy pillars, which include national security and sovereignty preservation.

She explained that the Philippines’ foreign policy is dynamic and works in concert with various aspects of state power, such as diplomacy, defense, and economic policy. This integrated approach is deemed essential for addressing the challenges posed by the current geopolitical landscape.