In a press conference held at Malacañang Palace, Security Adviser Eduardo Año elaborated on the government’s stance regarding China’s claim of a “new model” in the West Philippine Sea.
He emphasized that the current administration, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., is committed to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Philippines.
Año highlighted that President Marcos has been clear in his position that any previous agreements made with China are not binding under his administration.
He stated, “President Marcos has made it abundantly clear that his government is not aware of any secret or gentleman’s agreement with China. If such an agreement existed in the past, it has been rescinded.” This strong statement reflects the government’s determination to assert its independence and prioritize the national interest.
The Security Adviser further emphasized that it is the responsibility of those who were involved in the previous agreement to explain its details and implications to the Filipino people.
However, he underscored that the current administration cannot be bound by any agreement that was not made under its watch. This assertion underscores the government’s commitment to charting its own course and safeguarding the interests of the Filipino people.
Jonathan Malaya, the spokesperson for the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, echoed Año’s sentiments and called on all Filipinos to stand their ground.
He urged the public to reject narratives that seek to undermine the national interest and to remain vigilant in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty. Malaya emphasized that the Philippines will continue to pursue diplomatic and legal avenues to address the ongoing disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
The rejection of China’s claim of a “new model” in the West Philippine Sea by the Philippine government sends a strong message to the international community.
It reaffirms the country’s commitment to upholding its rights and interests in the disputed waters. As tensions continue to simmer in the region, the government’s firm stance serves as a reminder that the Philippines will not compromise its sovereignty and will defend its territorial integrity at all costs.
The controversy surrounding the “Gentleman’s Agreement” between China and the Philippines has sparked intense debate and speculation within both countries.
As news of the alleged secret deal broke, it sent shockwaves through the political landscape, with critics accusing the current administration of clandestine negotiations and betrayal of national interests.
The Chinese embassy’s claim that they repeatedly informed the Philippine government about the agreement has only added fuel to the fire.
According to their account, the two sides had engaged in discussions regarding the Ayungin Shoal issue and had even reached a consensus on a new model for managing the situation. They pointed to a meeting with a special envoy of the president in September 2023 as evidence of their engagement with the Philippine side.
President Marcos, however, vehemently denied any knowledge of such an agreement, asserting that he had no involvement in any secret deal with China.
His denial further deepened the mystery surrounding the alleged “Gentleman’s Agreement” and raised questions about who within the government might have been involved in these negotiations.
In response to China’s claims, Foreign Affairs Secretary Malaya dismissed their narrative of a “new model” as a mere distraction and an attempt to divide the Filipino people.
He stressed that there was no agreement whatsoever about the Ayungin Shoal and reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to upholding international law.
The controversy has not only strained diplomatic relations between China and the Philippines but has also ignited a fierce debate within the country.
Critics argue that any secret agreement with China would compromise national sovereignty and undermine the interests of the Filipino people. They demand transparency from the government and a thorough investigation into the alleged “Gentleman’s Agreement.”
Meanwhile, supporters of the current administration argue that the allegations are baseless and politically motivated.
They contend that the government has been steadfast in its commitment to protecting national interests and that any claims of secret deals are nothing more than attempts to undermine the administration’s credibility.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Philippine government will address the allegations and restore public trust.
The “Gentleman’s Agreement” has become a contentious issue that will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in the coming months. The Filipino people eagerly await answers and clarity regarding the alleged secret deal with China and its implications for their nation’s future.
The Philippine government’s strong stance in upholding its national interest in the West Philippine Sea is rooted in its commitment to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The recent criticism of the Chinese embassy’s attempts to sow discord and division in the country reflects the Philippines’ determination to assert its lawful actions in the disputed waters.
The assertion that the “new model” proposed by China is nothing more than a fabrication highlights the Philippine government’s skepticism towards any agreements that have not been authorized by the president.
It is clear that without proper authorization, any understanding holds no force and effect in the eyes of the Philippines.
The rejection of China’s claim of a “new model” is a clear indication that the Philippines will not back down in the face of interference or propaganda.
The government’s call for unity and steadfastness among the Filipino people is a rallying cry to protect the country’s national interest and ensure that its sovereignty is not undermined.
The dismissal of the controversy surrounding the so-called “gentleman’s agreement” further strengthens the Philippine government’s position.
By categorizing it as a fabrication, they are sending a strong message that they will not be swayed by false narratives or attempts to undermine their sovereignty.
In upholding their national interest, the Philippine government is also committed to acting within the bounds of international law.
This commitment reflects their belief in the importance of peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to established norms and principles.
As the Filipino people are called upon to stand their ground, it is crucial for them to remain vigilant against any narratives that seek to undermine the country’s sovereignty.
By staying united and steadfast, they can ensure that the Philippines’ national interest is protected and that its rightful place in the international community is upheld.
The call for unity among the Filipino people is a call to protect the country’s national interest and ensure that its sovereignty is not undermined.
Source: The Manila Times