Lawmakers belonging to the Bayan Muna party-list organization yesterday called on China to heed the call of the international community and present evidence of its claim over contested West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) areas before an international tribunal.
Representatives Neri Colmenares and Carlos Zarate welcomed the growing international support for the Philippines bid for international arbitration to resolve the on-going dispute.
China has been absorbing international criticism for its bullying tactics against smaller nations that have been claiming ownership of the contested territories. It has in fact reclaimed a huge portion of the area in the wake of protest against its action.
“China should stop its reclamation activities now and instead engage us in the international tribunal if indeed they have the legal basis and evidence to do so. As it is, China’s expansionist policy based on its 9-dash line theory is without legal, historical, and moral basis,” said Colmenares.
He added: “Every Filipino should defend our territory and exclusive economic zones and President Aquino should fortify our positions in the area to counter China’s aggressive acts.”
Zarate expressed doubt about the US statement that it will back small nations bullied by China.
“President Barack Obama’s statement on China’s expansion is a calculated response but the US would not risk a war with China because its economy would collapse without China. The US owes China at least $1.28 trillion and has a total $579 billion trade with China, compared to only $17.6 billion with the Philippines,” said Zarate.
Manila Bulletin
