(POLITIKO) Discover how 10 Filipino politicians, including Senator Grace Poe and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., courageously confront China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea, emphasizing a resolute commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and maritime interests.
- Senator Grace Poe urges consistent resolution against China’s bullying tactics, emphasizing the need to defend the country’s territory.
- Senate President Migz Zubiri focuses on boosting defense capabilities in the 2024 national budget to protect the West Philippine Sea.
- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirms the commitment to not surrender any territory amid the ongoing dispute, emphasizing adherence to a rules-based international order.
The West Philippine Sea has been a longstanding area of dispute, marked by China’s persistent assertion of territorial claims, often in disregard of international law and the rights of neighboring nations.
Despite the challenges posed by this situation, numerous Filipino politicians have emerged as staunch opponents of China’s aggressive stance, actively working to safeguard the sovereignty of the Philippines.
Let’s explore the profiles of 10 Filipino politicians who have boldly stood against China’s activities in the West Philippine Sea:
10. Senator Grace Poe: Defending Territory with Resolute Resolve
Senator Grace Poe urged the public not to succumb to China’s bullying tactics after Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked Philippine boats in the West Philippine Sea. Poe emphasized the need for consistent resolution in defending the country’s territory against such aggressive actions.
9. Sen. Risa Hontiveros: Actionable Steps to Prevent Chinese Incursions
Sen. Risa Hontiveros called for more than just diplomatic protests following reports of Chinese vessels swarming Julian Felipe Reef. She stressed the importance of executing actionable on-the-ground steps to prevent China from engaging in reclamation and base-building activities in the region.
8. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez: Disheartened by China’s Rejection
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed disappointment over China’s rejection of House Resolution 1494, which condemns China’s illegal actions in the West Philippine Sea. The resolution urges the government to continuously defend the sovereignty of the Philippines against ongoing violations of the Arbitral Award.
7. Senate President Migz Zubiri: Boosting Defense Capabilities
Senate President Migz Zubiri highlighted the inclusion of a much-needed boost to the country’s defense capabilities in the proposed 2024 national budget. The aim is to protect the West Philippine Sea from China’s constant bullying and aggression against Filipino fishermen and territorial integrity.
6. Senator Jinggoy Estrada: Addressing Concerns on the International Stage
Senator Jinggoy Estrada raised the Philippines’ concerns about China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea during the 31st Annual Meeting of the Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum. Estrada addressed the developments without directly naming China, shedding light on the harassment faced by Filipino vessels and fisherfolk.
5. Rep. LRay Villafuerte: Advocating Joint Maritime Patrols
National Unity Party president and Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte advocated for the acceleration of plans for joint maritime patrols with the United States and other allies in the West Philippine Sea.
Villafuerte believes that such patrols will effectively put an end to Beijing’s bullying in the area.
4. Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr.: Defending Sovereignty with Vigor
Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. staunchly defended the country’s sovereignty, rejecting insinuations that the Philippines is a lapdog of the United States. In an Instagram post, Teodoro emphasized the independence and capability of the Filipino people to stand on their own feet.
3. Senator JV Ejercito: Fury Against China’s Aggressive Tactics
Senator JV Ejercito expressed his fury over China’s aggressive maneuvers against Philippine ships in the West Philippine Sea. Ejercito blasted China’s bullying tactics, stating that enough is enough, particularly after reports of water cannons being used to block local boats delivering provisions to fishermen.
2. Former Senator Leila de Lima: Denouncing Foolish and Childish Behavior
Former Senator Leila de Lima denounced China’s recent use of water cannons against a Philippine boat on a resupply mission as “foolish and childish behavior.” De Lima emphasized that such tactics would not deter Filipinos from defending their waters and maritime rights against Chinese intruders.
These Filipino politicians have taken a strong stance against China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea, demonstrating their commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and maritime interests.
1. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.: No Surrender of Territory
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to not surrender any territory amid the ongoing dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea. He emphasized adherence to a rules-based international order and strengthening alliances with partners to preserve the country’s sovereignty.