The Department of Foreign Affairs has joined the international community in calling on North Korea to abandon its nuclear and ballistic programs after it launched another ballistic missile into the sea last Friday.
In a statement, the DFA expressed its grave concern on the reported actions by North Korea. “The Philippines calls on DPRK to cease such acts of provocation.
This launch clearly violates numerous UN Security Council Resolutions and further raises tensions,” the DFA stated.
“The Philippines strongly urges the DPRK to abandon its nuclear and ballistic missile technology programs in a complete, verifiable, and irreversible manner,” it added.
According to the DFA, the Philippines “stand ready to work with the international community to ensure peace and stability in the region and the rest of the world.”
Reports said that North Korea test fired two medium-range ballistic missiles, just days after North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un promised a series of nuclear warhead tests and missile launches.
Earlier this March, members of the United Nations, including the Philippines, welcomed the unanimous adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2270 on North Korea.
The resolution imposes the toughest sanctions so far on DPRK following its provocative nuclear tests and rocket launches which pose clear threats to international peace and stability.
The resolution included mandatory inspections of cargo leaving and entering North Korea by sea or air, of which North Korean cargo vessel MV Jin Teng was not allowed by Philippine authorities to leave Subic Bay Freeport.
