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On territorial disputes: Sen. Risa Hontiveros, during the Commission on Appointments' deliberation on the ad interim appointment of Enrique Austria Manalo as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs Wednesday, September 28, 2022, asks the latter’s view on territorial disputes given the President’s statement that the Philippines would “not give up even an inch of its territory.” In response, Manalo said they will challenge any claim by any foreign power claiming Philippine territory. Hontiveros also asked Manalo if he thought treaties, such as the Mutual Defense Treaty, should be updated. Manalo replied in the affirmative, explaining that treaties should be continuously updated given the changes in geo-political conditions, technology, changing environment and approaches such as responses to disasters or humanitarian assistance. “I believe you can count on the support of us legislators and those rightful challenges based on international law and based on our own Constitution,” Hontiveros said, referring to the territorial disputes. (Bibo Nueva España/Senate PRIB)