Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez stood before the 29th Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum in Madrid, Spain, delivering a resolute address on the Philippines’ unwavering stance regarding the West Philippine Sea dispute. This forum, hosted by the Spanish Senate and led by former US congressman Robert Pittenger, serves as a platform for legislators and security experts to collaborate on addressing global intelligence and cybersecurity challenges.
Romualdez emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to upholding the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award, which affirm the country’s exclusive rights in the WPS. Despite continuous threats from China, exemplified by a recent incident where a Chinese Coast Guard vessel aggressed a Philippine research vessel near Pag-asa Island, Romualdez reiterated the country’s resolve to defend its sovereignty through legal means.
The Chinese Coast Guard’s use of water cannons against Philippine vessels conducting routine missions in the WPS signifies a troubling escalation. Such provocative actions challenge the Philippines’ territorial integrity and highlight the broader issue of whether international law or brute force will prevail in territorial disputes. Romualdez’s assertion that these incidents are not isolated but rather global tests underscores the gravity of the situation.
In response to China’s justifications for its aggressive maneuvers, including claims of past agreements regarding the removal of Philippine assets in disputed areas, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. refuted such assertions, reaffirming the country’s commitment to protecting its rights in the face of coercion. Romualdez’s declaration that the Philippines will not yield its rights nor compromise its principles underscores the nation’s dedication to pursuing peace through lawful means and mutual respect.
The Speaker’s call for a strategic approach grounded in legal clarity, diplomatic dialogue, and leveraging partnerships reflects a commitment to resolving disputes peacefully. By emphasizing the importance of truth amid foreign narratives and rejecting coercive actions that seek to undermine national sovereignty, Romualdez highlights the government’s steadfastness in upholding democratic principles and the rule of law.
Romualdez’s participation in forums like the PI-SF signifies a broader effort to foster international cooperation and understanding, particularly in navigating complex territorial disputes. By engaging in intelligence-sharing and building solidarity with like-minded nations, the Philippines aims to strengthen its position and promote stability in the region.
As Romualdez concludes his address, his call for unity, purpose, and resolute action resonates as a rallying cry for upholding peace, stability, and global cooperation in the face of escalating tensions. The imperative to stand together, united in defense of shared values and principles, underscores the ongoing challenges posed by territorial disputes and the critical role of international collaboration in addressing them.
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