Marcos Rejects Secret Deals over South China Sea Access

Addressing foreign journalists, the president emphasized that the nation refuses to relinquish its territorial claims or sovereignty over the contested region. By rejecting the necessity of external permission for nautical movements, Marcos effectively signaled a firm refusal to concede tactical control to Beijing. His statement serves as a direct rebuttal to rumors that Manila had entered into restrictive backroom deals that might undermine its strategic position in the area.