Villanueva: Statement on the latest incident in the West Philippine Sea

We condemn in the strongest possible terms the latest aggression of the China Coast Guard (CCG) against our Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), who were on a resupply mission in the Ayungin Shoal. This latest incident, as well as all other aggressions of China towards our countrymen, is totally inhumane, illegal, and barbaric. We will file and sponsor a resolution calling on the Department of Foreign Affairs to take all necessary actions to stop these incidents, and update the Senate on the actions taken relative to the recommendations of the Senate in our Adopted Resolution No. 79, considering the non-stop harassment of the CCG on the PCG and the Philippine Navy, and even Filipino researchers in the area.

As one nation, let us set aside our differences and stand together in fighting these bullies. Encroaching our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and at the same time putting the lives of our kababayans in danger is simply unacceptable. We salute our Philippine Navy and the PCG for their gallantry, and the nation thanks them for their bravery in protecting our seas.

Let us take to heart the words of our National Anthem: 'Sa manlulupig, di ka pasisiil.' Sama-sama po nating ipaglaban ang nararapat. Atin ang West Philippine Sea!