Expert Downplays "West Philippine Sea" Label, Reaffirms South China Sea as International Standard

A Chinese expert has downplayed the significance of the recent attention given to the "West Philippine Sea," stating that it is not a new phenomenon and should not be taken too seriously. The expert emphasized that the South China Sea remains the globally recognized name for the body of water. This is the name used by the international community.

The expert believes that the recent focus on the "West Philippine Sea" will not change historical facts or China's claim of sovereignty over the islands in the South China Sea. The expert noted that the Philippines has been promoting the term for over a decade. The recent change by certain map service providers might be related to Manila's lobbying efforts and coordination with some Western governments and media outlets.

The expert highlighted that the name "South China Sea" has long been the internationally recognized name for the body of water. Major international organizations and the vast majority of countries consistently use this term in their official documents. The Chinese government also uses this term in its official English documents.

The expert concluded that the Philippines' efforts to promote the "West Philippine Sea" do not alter China's claim of sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and their surrounding waters. The expert views the renaming as a political maneuver.