South China Sea Code of Conduct negotiations reach 70% completion, DFA says

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 13, 2026

Photo Courtesy: AFP

Negotiations between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China on a proposed Code of Conduct in the South China Sea have reached around 70 percent completion, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.

DFA Assistant Secretary and ASEAN spokesperson Dax Imperial said significant progress has been made under the Philippines’ chairmanship, with negotiators holding regular meetings since the start of the year.

However, he cautioned that the remaining 30 percent covers important provisions that still require agreement among the parties.

Imperial said the Philippines is pushing for an effective agreement that would establish clear rules governing the conduct of all parties operating in the disputed waters.

Manila is also seeking safeguards that would respect the rights of third-party countries, including those that are not directly involved in the negotiations.

The proposed agreement aims to prevent tensions and confrontations in the South China Sea from escalating by establishing a framework for responsible conduct among claimant states.

Despite the progress, the DFA official did not give a definite timeline for completing the negotiations, leaving uncertainty over whether the agreement can be finalized before the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship ends in December.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed hope that the long-awaited agreement will be completed within the country’s term as ASEAN chair.

The Philippines is hosting the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits from November 14 to 17, where regional security and maritime cooperation are expected to figure prominently in discussions.