China should recognise that the Philippines is an independent and sovereign state whose actions and decisions are driven entirely by national interest and not at the direction of other countries, Manila's foreign ministry said on Monday.

The Philippines asserts its independence in the South China Sea dispute, countering China's claims of external influence. Manila's foreign ministry emphasizes China's non-compliance with international law and reveals a transparency initiative involving journalists to highlight maritime actions.

China should recognise that the Philippines is an independent and sovereign state whose actions and decisions are driven entirely by national interest and not at the direction of other countries, Manila's foreign ministry said on Monday.

Britain expressed concern over China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea. Foreign Minister David Lammy highlighted the importance of secure trade routes and emphasized the Philippines' challenges with Chinese activities.

Manila says it is, alongside allies, ready to "counteract" any attempt by Beijing to restrict flights in airspace over the disputed South China Sea.

China has accused the Philippines of polluting the environment after it released footage it said showed troops burning rubbish at a disputed reef in the South China Sea. The video, published on social media by state broadcaster CGTN on Saturday,

A woman’s patience, composure and the ability to respond or to communicate with empathy makes us unique,’ a member of the Angels of the Sea team says.

Seawoman Second Class Stephane Villalon's voice reverberated on the bridge of her Philippine ship as she issued a radio challenge to a much larger Chinese Coast Guard vessel in a disputed area of the South China Sea.