LATELY, global attention to the West Philippine Sea has once again escalated as its occupant China has deployed long-range, nuclear-capable bombers on Woody Island, in the Paracel archipelago, putting all of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, within its striking range.
The latest inclusion of China’s military might has drawn attention and reactions in the country with some critics urging the government to make more drastic moves against the said country.
Some are urging that we reiterate our diplomatic protests we filed before international organizations against the country. However, we have done the same and nothing has happened. As a matter of fact, we won over China with what we have filed before the international tribunal.
For the pugnacious, they wanted to wage war versus China with our available military firepower as we assert sovereignty over our said territory that is claimed by many and currently occupied by the Chinese military. As it shall be expected, it will be a David versus Goliath battle in case.
Recently, President Rodrigo Duterte said that he wanted to take stronger actions in asserting sovereignty in the area but later realized that such move would mean great losses for our country should we make a confrontation with China. The latter has a great economy which we sometimes benefit from in terms of economic supply and assistance.
Another loss would also mean a sure defeat of our military all in air, water or land war. Without looking down on our own military forces, we have just the miniscule military muscle as compared to China’s power and military might. It has now its second aircraft carrier.
Duterte stated that he does not go to war which he cannot win. It’s his very logical and most practical answer that is to be considered with our present stand-off with the occupant of our territory in the West Philippine Sea. With all our bravery minus military capability, we shall be like lame ducks at the mercy of a properly-equipped wildlife hunter.
In addition, the government does not want to taint its relations with China as this will mean the severance of our economic ties with the said country. Further, the government would not want to risk the lives of overseas Filipino workers in China’s mainland and other territories in exchange of our assertion for sovereignty in the said West Philippine Sea.
We have to admit that we are like beggars who cannot even put up bamboo fences in our small parcel of land that is now occupied by China. Somehow, we can be blamed for not utilizing the said area that its occupant now has “illegally squat”.
***
For any comments, ideas, suggestions or opinions, text or call The Advocate at 0921-3636360 or send email at dencious@gmail.com