Innocent passage in West PH Sea invoked by US

United States Ambassador to Manila MaryKay Carlson affirmed that the US Navy’s recent operations in the Scarborough Shoal are critical to freedom of navigation in the region and the US’ role in upholding international maritime laws.

- By RAYMUND ANTONIO

Speaking on the sidelines of the welcome reception for US Embassy Public Diplomacy Officers in Makati City on Friday night, Aug. 15, the ambassador reiterated the US military’s plan to “fly, sail, and operate anywhere that international law allows.”

"All people are entitled to that innocent passage. And that kind of innocent passage is essential, whether it’s in our warships, to demonstrate that commercial vessels also must enjoy that same right under international law," Carlson said. "So, exercising those freedom of navigation operations is essential to demonstrate to the world that the United States military has a serious obligation to uphold and defend international law at the sea."

She issued the statement after warships from the United States Navy were spotted near the Scarborough Shoal days after vessels from China Coast Guard (CCG) and the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) collided.