Philippines should prepare to fight for Spratlys on its own, say lawmakers

MANILA, Philippines—Lawmakers are not disappointed with the US stance on China’s intrusion on the Spratly islands and West Palawan Sea but they believe that the Philippines should take the lead in making it a global issue.

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said it would be proper not to involve the US at this point because the situation could still be solved diplomatically.

Belmonte said reaching a common stand with other claimants against China would be the best option.

Parañaque Representative Roilo Golez said he fully expected the US to take a hands-off stance on China’s intrusion at this point.

“The US reaction is expected and pro forma in any potential conflict not involving a crucial ally like Israel, Taiwan and South Korea. But I believe that in an open conflict, which is unlikely, the US would resort to gunboat diplomacy or, to be more precise, aircraft carrier diplomacy to make sure freedom of navigation is preserved,” said Golez.

Muntinlupa City Rep. Rodolfo Biazon said that the US would remain neutral until the country’s troops or ships were fired upon.

But some lawmakers like Easter Samar Ben Evardone said that as the country’s ally, the US should take a stand.

“We should question the US why it chooses which part of our country is covered by the RP-US mutual defense treaty. The Spratlys are part of PH territory therefore the US should come to our defense in case of hostilities in the area,” said Evardone.

Golez said the Philippines should be prepared to be alone in tackling the West Philippine Sea question as a diplomatic challenge but it should also move to strike alliances with other countries that have been the victim of China’s aggression.

“We should use all international fora possible to project China as a misbehaving international bully. We should internationalize the issue in both official and unofficial channels. We can hurt China in an area where they are most vulnerable and where a credible attack can be launched and sustained: their international image,” said Golez..

Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara said: “Many countries are similarly situated as us in having territory disputes with an increasingly aggressive China. I think it is time we seek the help of the United Nations for possible mediation.”