(POLITIKO) Senator Jinggoy Estrada on Monday (May 6) expressed support for the stance of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. not to use water cannons against Chinese vessels trespassing in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“I express my solidarity with the President regarding his firm decision to abstain from employing water cannons or any other offensive weapons as a countermeasure against China’s persistent aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea,” Estrada said.
“Instead, it is our responsibility to remain steadfast in safeguarding our maritime and sovereign rights through a rule-based approach,” he added.
Estrada pointed this out amid the continued Chinese harassment of Philippine vessels which includes the use of water cannons.
The lawmaker said adhering to the rule of law entails “the use of diplomatic channels and peaceful means of conflict resolution.”
“By adhering to these principles, we can successfully safeguard our sovereign rights and protect our territorial integrity while maintaining a peaceful and stable environment in the region.” said Estrada.