Sen. Imee R. Marcos (Bibo Nueva España/Senate PRIB)
MANILA, Philippines—The executive branch may consider granting immunity to witnesses to an alleged audio recording of a Filipino general agreeing to a “new model” in Ayungin Shoal, Senator Imee Marcos said on Thursday.
Marcos floated this idea following reports about the alleged recorded phone conversation between a Chinese official and Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, chief of the Western Command (Wescom).
“The executive branch has the discretion to offer immunity to witnesses who will step forward with the alleged recordings and details thereof,” the senator said in a statement to reporters when sought for comment on the issue.
“With the Anti-Wiretapping law being very strict, the executive should consider granting such immunity to key witnesses if they really want to get to the bottom of this issue,” added Marcos, head of the Senate committee on foreign relations.
In the alleged audio recording, Carlos supposedly told the Chinese official that the Philippine government has agreed to deescalate tension in Ayungin Shoal.
The Wescom chief is currently on leave but the Armed Forces of the Philippines quickly clarified his decision had nothing to do with the alleged deal.
Marcos’ panel is set to investigate another alleged deal between China and then President Rodrigo Duterte in connection with the West Philippine Sea issue.
Senator Jingoy Estrada, on the other hand, dismissed China’s claims about the “new model” deal, saying it was “nothing but another apparent disinformation campaign by the Chinese government.”
“China’s claim is nothing more than smoke and mirrors. We will not be swayed by falsehoods,” Estrada said in another statement.
He added these assertions were “nothing more than a trap” aimed at diverting attention from China’s unfounded claims and aggressive actions.
Estrada then called on the military to remain loyal to the Philippine flag and to be “vigilant against any underhanded tactics that may weaken our position.”
“We must stand united in defense of our territorial rights, as our strength lies in our unity,” he said.
The Department ofForeign Affairs (DFA) has also warned the public against “falling for false narratives,” in response to these new claims from China.
“Resorting to tactics such as releasing unverifiable recordings of supposed conversations with Philippine officials could demonstrate efforts to sow discord and confusion among Philippine agencies and the Filipino public,” DFA Spokesperson Teresita Daza said.