AFP no comment on sea ruling

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday declined to comment on the ruling by a United Nations court on the Philippines’ case over the South China Sea.

“It’s the Department of Foreign Affairs that will answer all questions arising from decision of the Permanent Court of Administration,” AFP chief Gen. Ricardo Visaya said.

The international court ruled in favor of the Philippines, saying China had no historic rights to its claimed nine-dash line.

The Philippine military occupies nine detachments in the Spratlys Island of the West Philippine Sea.

“None from us,” said AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla when sought for reaction.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. welcomed the decision of the Hague shortly after the ruling was issued, saying it was being studied “with care and thoroughness.”