Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros praised the recent joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), calling them a clear stand against China’s aggressive actions. Hontiveros highlighted that these exercises serve as a reminder to China of the international community’s commitment to upholding the rules-based order in the South China Sea.
“The joint patrols are a clear display of our resistance to China’s bullying,” Hontiveros said. “These exercises demonstrate that those who believe in the rule of law will not tolerate violence, threats, or intimidation. It helps put China in her place.”
Hontiveros urged China to honor its commitments to international agreements, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. She emphasized that China is the one provoking tensions in the region and must cease its aggressive behavior.
Former senator and ex-military officer Gringo Honasan echoed the importance of these joint maritime activities in maintaining balance and deterring conflict in the WPS. However, he also stressed the need for a peaceful resolution to the disputes, whether through international channels or preparing for potential future challenges.
Over the weekend, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Romeo Brawner Jr. announced that the Philippines conducted joint maritime drills with the defense forces of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States. These exercises underscore shared commitments to ensuring freedom of navigation and respect for maritime rights under international law, as outlined by UNCLOS.