House Investigates Alleged ‘Gentleman’s Agreement’ with China on West Philippine Sea
The House of Representatives is set to investigate an alleged ‘gentleman’s agreement’ between former Philippine President Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the West Philippine Sea. The inquiry will examine the terms and implications of the purported agreement, which involves the Philippines refraining from sending materials to its outpost on Ayungin Shoal. This investigation aims to clarify the agreement’s impact on national sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in light of the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s claims in the region. Key figures, including Duterte, will be called to testify, shedding light on the geopolitical dynamics at play.