Several senators have renewed their call to defend the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea as the Philippines marked the 10th anniversary of its landmark victory before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.
Senator Erwin Tulfo warned against what he described as growing efforts to spread false claims about Philippine territory after Chinese scholars reportedly asserted that Batanes is part of China.
“We have to act fast in ensuring that Filipinos are not easily swayed by these kinds of claims. As early as Basic Education, Filipinos must be equipped with knowledge about the Philippine sovereignty,” Tulfo said as he pushed for the immediate passage of his proposed West Philippine Sea Education Act.
Senator Risa Hontiveros also urged Filipinos not to forget the country’s legal victory, saying it remains a strong response to China’s continuing territorial claims and disinformation.
“The 2016 Hague Ruling still stands, affirming that China’s nine-dash line has absolutely no basis in international law,” Hontiveros said, adding that the ruling continues to serve as a shield against attempts to distort the truth.
For his part, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said the country’s victory in The Hague should inspire Filipinos to continue supporting communities in the Kalayaan Island Group, particularly fishermen who continue to face intimidation while earning a living.
“Darating ang tunay na tagumpay kapag ang ating mga kababayan ay malaya at walang takot na nakakapamumuhay, nakakapangisda, at nakakapangarap sa West Philippine Sea,” he said.
Senator Bam Aquino likewise stressed that the arbitral ruling remains a reminder that the country’s sovereign rights must be protected.
“Sa gitna ng mga patuloy na hamon sa West Philippine Sea, nananatiling malinaw ang ating paninindigan: atin ang West Philippine Sea, at patuloy nating ipaglalaban ang ating soberanya, ang ating mga karapatan, at ang ating pambansang interes,” said Aquino.IMT
