DFA rejects claims of ‘opaque’ talks on PCG–CCG deal

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Sunday rejected claims of a lack of transparency in discussions on proposed amendments to the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the China Coast Guard (CCG).

“The DFA categorically rejects characterizations of these discussions as opaque, unilateral, or conducted without the PCG’s knowledge and participation,” the agency said in a statement.

The 2016 agreement between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards, which established a joint maritime cooperation committee, has been undergoing renegotiation since 2024 for updates and amendments.

The DFA said that ahead of the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) meeting with China last March, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan had already informed the department in January about the status of negotiations with the CCG.

“It bears emphasis that while these negotiations have been conducted through proper diplomatic channels, they are not limited to BCM meetings," the DFA said.

All developments have been duly reported to, and are known by, all relevant principals, including the National Security Adviser in his capacity as NTF-WPS chair, the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and PCG Commandant Gavan,” it added.

The department also reiterated that the proposed amendments are “limited in scope,” stressing that the MOU does not cover joint patrols or cooperation in sensitive operational areas.

“They aim to re-establish the Joint Coast Guard Committee as a formalized communication channel between the two coast guards. The MOU does not contemplate cooperation in sensitive operational areas, joint patrols in particular,” it said.

The DFA said the talks are in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to maintain open lines of communication with China while upholding Philippine sovereignty and the 2016 arbitral ruling.—MCG, GMA News