House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Sunday condemned the latest incident of harassment by the China Coast Guard against the Philippine Coast Guard at the Escoda (Sabina) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.
Romualdez was reacting to the incident where the CCG deliberately rammed BRP Teresa Magbanua, describing it as a “troubling incident that raises serious questions about respect for international law and our nation’s dignity.”
The August 31 incident was the fifth time that China harassed Philippine vessels in the WPS, which Romualdez described as a “significant escalation in tensions over the Escoda (Sabina) Shoal—an area clearly within the Philippines’ 370-kilometer Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).”
He said such actions made by the CCG are cause for serious reflection, and considering that the Philippines has been consistently advocating for peaceful and diplomatic resolutions to disputes, it is about time that the government “reassess how we protect our rights and interests in our waters.”
Romualdez further expressed deep dismay toward the government of the People’s Republic of China for its actions in the WPS.
“The Filipino people are committed to peace, yet we expect our sovereignty to be respected,” he said.
“We continue to hope for constructive dialogue, but it is clear that our patience is being tested. Under our Constitution and as a member of the international community, we have an obligation to defend our territory,” he added.
Romualdez further stated that it is about time “to consider stronger measures.”
“We should enhance our presence in the West Philippine Sea, reinforce our alliances, and ensure that our capabilities are sufficient to protect our sovereign rights,” he said.
He also urged the Department of Foreign Affairs to bring this matter to the attention of the highest levels of international diplomacy.
Moreover, he asked the entire Filipino nation to continuously support and unite in the midst of the challenges that the country is facing.
“Let us stand together to defend our nation, sending a clear message that we are prepared to protect what is rightfully ours while we seek peace,” he stated.
He also stated that while the Philippines remains committed to dialogue and a peaceful resolution, “we also stand ready to safeguard our sovereignty. We call for respect, and we are determined to meet any challenges that may arise.”
