MANILA – The Philippines strongly condemned North Korea’s recent ballistic missile test on Jan. 6, urging the country to halt its provocative actions and engage in peaceful dialogue.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed grave concern over North Korea’s actions, emphasizing the threat these pose to regional stability and economic progress.
“The Philippines expresses serious concern and strongly denounces the continuing ballistic missile launches conducted by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). Such provocative actions undermine economic progress, peace, and stability in the Korean Peninsula and the Indo-Pacific region,” the DFA stated.
The DFA also renewed its call for North Korea to comply with international obligations, including United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
“We urge the DPRK to promptly cease these activities and commit to peaceful and constructive dialogue,” the DFA added.
North Korea’s latest test involved an intermediate-range ballistic missile fired into the East Sea. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff estimated the missile’s range at 3,000 to 5,500 kilometers (1,864 to 3,418 miles). This marks North Korea’s first ballistic missile launch since Nov. 5, when it fired multiple short-range missiles.
The Philippines joins the international community in condemning these acts, reiterating its support for peace and stability in the region.
ia/mnm
