STATEMENT OF SENATOR RICHARD J. GORDON ON THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN THE WEST PHILIPPINE SEA

The Chinese government's coercive and destabilizing actions in the West Philippine sea and the South China sea are acts that belie its pronouncements of friendship and goodwill and affinity with the Filipino people. In my view, China as a major power, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, and signatory to many treaties and international agreements and conventions, should set the example of responsible governance with policies and actions that adhere to its international commitments.

Every country has a set of core interests, core values but these need not run counter to each other. Or if it should so happen, aggression or intimidation is not the solution as such would lead to bigger problems, as we have seen in history. There are mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes which can be availed of.

In the South China sea, the Philippines and other country-claimants continue negotiations for a Code of Conduct acceptable to all parties. It is a challenging task but a peaceful path. I would urge our good neighbor, the Chinese government in particular, to adopt policies and actions that contribute to peace and stability in the region, and not create an impression of a bullying neighbour