The situation in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) between the Philippines and China is no different from the ongoing senseless, savage Russia-Ukraine war in which Russia is at error. It is a war better called “Russia War.” Sanity should prevail. Humanity in humans must triumph. Stop the bloodshed.
China’s bullying is not limited to its bullying of our fishermen. It is depictive of its impudence and defiance of international law, more so its disrespect for and contempt of our ethos and dignity as a people and nation. Imperious.
In view of this, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would do well to take every “goodwill” gesture of China to the Philippines with a grain of salt, if not view it as an act of ill will. Any help, aid or “trade cooperation” China has offered and may offer in the future is and would be meaningless, and could be construed as fraught with bad intentions -- unless they repent.
China used to be a good friend to the Philippines, but not anymore.
Dear officials of the land, beware of the present Chinese officials playing (subtle) the “forbidden fruit” game. Don’t bite the bug or the bait. Succumb not. What they are doing in the WPS is unprecedented and indefensible. Open your eyes. Be very careful in dealing with them until they behave and stop their aggressions and juvenile sweeping claims in the said disputed sea.
Go ahead, dear senators, with your proposal to bring the WPS row to the United Nations (UN) for another just, intelligent decision/resolution of the brewing time bomb (for the world) on account of the incessant robbing of foreign territories. It is a wise move.
There are only two crucial “ifs” for China and the world to ponder upon.
One is, if China won’t still budge and recognize another international ruling, this time by the UN no less, then all nations, not only the Philippines should brace themselves for the undesirable.
The other “if” is: If the Chinese leaders can’t and will not really accept the 2016 ruling of the arbitral tribunal, prior to the action/decision of the UN, the only and remaining wise thing left for them to do is to accept reason and justness.
By doing so, they may engage our country and the rest of the claimant countries involved in the WPS row in a dialogue (serious, transparent and sincere) to reach a compromise “win-win solution” for all -- for the sake of peace and the saving of lives, and the preservation of our planet.
Play fair and humane. That is even wiser.