Marcos laments failed talks on West Philippine Sea disputes with China

(UPDATE) PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday lamented the failure of the Philippines and China to settle their longstanding disputes on the West Philippine Sea during his farewell meeting with outgoing Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian in Malacañang.

The President described the stalled development as “unfortunate,” citing the need for continued dialogue to ease tensions and resolve the issues in the disputed waters.

“It’s unfortunate we didn’t make much more progress on the difficulties that we have in the South China Sea, West Philippine Sea,” Marcos told Huang. “But I think, considering how difficult the situation was, that we have managed to keep things at least away from too much problem.”

FAREWELL CALL President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. receives Huang Xilian, outgoing Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, for a farewell call in Malacañang on Sept. 25, 2025. PPA POOL PHOTO BY YUMMIE DINGDING

Despite this, Marcos thanked Huang for his service and dedication to improve the relations between the Philippines and China during his tenure.

“We will miss you. I think you have made a very good second home in Manila,” the President said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. receives His Excellency Huang Xilian, outgoing Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, for a farewell call at the Study Room in Malacañan Palace on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. PHOTOS BY YUMMIE DINGDING/PPA POOL

Huang started his tour of duty as Chinese envoy to the Philippines in 2019.

In many occasions Marcos or the Department of Foreign Affairs had summoned Huang over China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea.

On Tuesday, Navy spokesman for the West Philippine Sea Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad said 12 Chinese vessels were monitored in key areas of the West Philippine Sea over the past week, down from the usual 14 to 20 ships.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines over China’s claims in the South China Sea, saying that it had “no legal basis.” China has since ignored the arbitral ruling.

In January of this year, Huang expressed hope that both China and the Philippines will prioritize their “original aspirations” to work collaboratively for the well-being of their citizens.

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Marcos laments failed talks on West Philippine Sea disputes with China

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