DFA Defends Transparency in PH-China Coast Guard MOU Amendments

Article by Monne Slyvia

Published on April 20, 2026 11:19PM

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on April 13, 2026 reaffirmed its commitment to transparency amid the ongoing discussions to amend the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the China Coast Guard (CCG). DFA assured that negotiations are not being conducted in secrecy or without proper coordination. ¹

The DFA emphasized that the PCG is actively engaged in the amendment process, countering suggestions that the agency was sidelined. To recall, in 2016, the PCG and CCG first entered into an MOU on the Establishment of a Joint Coast Guard Committee on Maritime Cooperation. The DFA also clarified that the proposed changes to the MOU are limited in scope and primarily aim to reestablish the Joint Coast Guard Committee as a formal communication mechanism between the two (2) agencies, adding that the MOU does not contemplate cooperation in sensitive operational areas particularly joint patrols.

These negotiations are aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to maintain the open lines of communication with China while firmly asserting Philippine sovereignty. The DFA’s latest statement highlights the government’s dual-track approach, sustaining diplomatic engagement with China while safeguarding national interests.

For ordinary Filipinos, in situations like this, it is important to stay informed and grounded in reliable information. Issues involving agreements between the PCG and CCG can easily become confusing or controversial, especially when discussed online. Being an informed citizen means having enough awareness of national issues to form thoughtful opinions while still recognizing that foreign policy decisions are often complex and carefully balanced.

_______________________________________ Notes: ¹ Hernando-Malipot, M. (2026, April 13). No “secret talks”: DFA defends transparency in ph–china coast guard mou amendments. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2026/04/13/no-secret-talks-dfa-defends-transparency-in-phchina-coast-guard-mou-amendments