China must stop military drills around Taiwan, SCS–Hontiveros

In this photo released by the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense, Taiwan guided missile destroyer Ma Kong DDG1805, left, monitors Chinese guided missile destroyer Xi’an DDG15, right, near Taiwan on Thursday, May 23, 2024. Taiwan tracked dozens of Chinese warplanes and navy vessels off its coast Friday on the second day of a large exercise China’s People’s Liberation Army held in response to the inauguration of the island’s new leadership. Associated Press

MANILA, Philippines — China must stop “flexing its muscles” around Taiwan and across the South China Sea (SCS), according to Senator Risa Hontiveros, referring to the Asian superpower’s  conduct of military drills around the self-ruled island as a form of “strong punishment.”

Last May 23 reports said that China launched drills to surround Taiwan for what the former called “separatist acts.” It added China’s move came after Lai Ching-te was sworn in as Taiwan’s new president.

READ: China holds military drills around Taiwan as ‘punishment’

“China must stop flexing her muscles around Taiwan and all across the South China Sea. Militarizing the SCS is not the solution. Instead of working with governments to abate the tensions in the region, all Beijing has done is make matters worse,” Hontiveros said in a statement on Sunday.

She likewise assured Taiwan that the Philippines is among its allies, pointing out that all free and democratic people can vote for their chosen leaders.

READ: Taiwan swears in new president as China pressure grows

“The Taiwanese, like any free and democratic people, have the right to choose their leaders and other elected representatives. I want to assure the new Taiwanese President, Lai Ching-te, that he has allies in the Philippines,” the senator said.

“As a fellow believer in democracy, I would like to express my renewed commitment to support all his current and prospective efforts to help safeguard peace and security in our region,” he added.

Moreover, Hontiveros expressed hope that the international community will stand with Taiwan amid China’s continued aggression.

“Any conflict in our region affects not only our neighbors but also the entire world,” she pointed out.