Philippines won’t waive rights over West PH Sea – Duterte

By Prince Golez

The Philippines will not waiver in its position on the issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea, President Rodrigo Duterte said.

“Our principled position and stand on the West Philippine Sea remains. I have said it before and I will say it again, our agencies have been directed to do what they must and should to protect and defend our nation’s interest,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said, quoting Duterte’s remarks.

According to Roque, the President has directed the concerned agencies to continue to patrol relevant areas and firmly assert the country’s claims to the sea.

“The Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will be where they need to be.

“We will not waiver in our position. Ang Pilipino ay may prinsipyo at mayroong paninindigan lalo na para sa Inang Bayan. And at the same time, we must be willing to do what we can as responsible members of the international community to resolve disputes peacefully,” he added.

Duterte said the Department of Foreign Affairs, as lead agency, will be at the forefront in advancing the country’s interest and harnessing time-honored principles of international law.

“Diplomacy, therefore, will play an ever important part. It has fully utilized the bilateral consultation mechanisms and other diplomatic venues to engage China,” the Chief Executive also said.

“All stakeholders have professed fealty to these fundamental principles. It’s time for all of us to walk our talk,” he concluded.

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)