Mixed results

The indefatigable former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has proposed the country elevate China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Several senators joined in urging the DFA to file a resolution that would force China to abide by the 2016 UN decision which recognized the country’s territorial rights in the WPS.

Our local fishermen have been constantly complaining of harassment by the Chinese Coast Guard. Some incidents were considered hostile. Data shows local fishermen in Zambales have lost at least 70% of their daily income ever since China asserted its ownership of the whole area, especially Panatag Shoal.

The fishermen’s plight has been going on for more than a decade. A 70% reduction in income is no joke for a poor fisherman. They used to fish freely in areas considered part of our exclusive economic zone. With China using bullying tactics to scare them off, it is no surprise their daily catch has shrunk to unacceptable levels. How can a wooden boat go up against a metal hull? We have already seen the effects of an allision.

The past administration’s affinity to China did not help the fishermen. The China Coast Guard vessels seem to have been emboldened by the fact they had an ally in the Palace. They also stepped up their construction projects, some military in nature and purpose. They have already landed a long-range bomber on one of the artificial islands. A show of force if you will. They send radio warnings to both air and sea vessels that “enter their territory.” A laser was allegedly illuminating a Philippine vessel as if to send a message. If that isn’t a provocation, I don’t know what is.

Elevating the action of China in the WPS may have mixed results. On one hand, it will raise global awareness as to what is going on in the WPS, particularly the Chinese vessels’ harassment and intimidation not only to the Philippines but to other countries as well. On the other hand, it may escalate tensions between us and Beijing, something President Marcos Jr. would rather not happen. The word “sumbungero” comes to mind. But we have to assert our rights and sovereignty, for the sake of our local fishermen who are bearing the brunt of this bullying. Elevating the issue to the UNGA is a good thing but the country needs to prepare to appease China should it take an even more aggressive stance on the issue.