Posted 3/27/2024, 2:52:00 AM
Duterte Had Verbal 'Status Quo' Deal with China in West Philippine Sea, Causing Confusion Under Marcos Jr.
- Former President Duterte had a verbal, non-binding agreement with China to maintain the status quo in the West Philippine Sea during his term
- The agreement called for the Philippines to not construct or repair installations in the disputed area
- China may have misunderstood this agreement to be applicable under President Marcos Jr.'s term
- Duterte's allies deny accusations he promised to remove BRP Sierra Madre ship from Ayungin Shoal
- His former spokesperson Harry Roque recently admitted Duterte struck a "gentleman's agreement" with China on the status quo