Sen. Jinggoy Estrada Denounces Chinese “New Model” in the West Philippine Sea
On Thursday, Senator Jinggoy Estrada made a strong statement regarding what he called a “new model” proposed by the Chinese government to ease tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). According to Estrada, this so-called “new model” is nothing more than a disinformation campaign.
Estrada emphasized that Ayungin Shoal is an integral part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ). He cited the ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague in 2016, which unequivocally upheld the Philippines’ sovereignty over the area. This ruling is crucial in asserting the country’s rights and jurisdiction over its EEZ and continental shelf.
The Department of Foreign Affairs Responds
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has responded to Estrada’s statement and reiterated that they are unaware of any “new model” proposed by the Chinese embassy for resolving the WPS issue. The DFA has also made it clear that the Philippines has not conceded any agreement that would relinquish its sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its EEZ and continental shelf, including Ayungin Shoal.
The DFA further emphasized that any contracts or agreements of such significance would only be established if sanctioned at the highest echelons of the government. This ensures that the country’s interests and territorial integrity are protected.
Contextualizing the Issue for an International Audience
Understanding the complexities of the West Philippine Sea issue requires some contextualization, especially for an international audience. The West Philippine Sea, also known as the South China Sea, is a highly disputed region with overlapping territorial claims from multiple countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
The Philippines, as a claimant state, has been actively asserting its rights over its EEZ and continental shelf in the West Philippine Sea. The country’s claims are based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which provides a legal framework for the rights and responsibilities of coastal states.
In 2016, the Philippines achieved a significant victory when the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled in favor of its claims and invalidated China’s “nine-dash line” claim, which encompassed almost the entire South China Sea. The court’s ruling affirmed that Ayungin Shoal, among other features in the West Philippine Sea, falls within the Philippines’ EEZ and continental shelf.
However, despite the ruling, tensions in the region have persisted. China has continued to assert its claims and has been involved in various activities, such as the construction of artificial islands and the deployment of military assets in the disputed waters.
It is against this backdrop that Senator Jinggoy Estrada’s statement should be understood. His denouncement of the Chinese “new model” reflects the Philippines’ commitment to upholding the rule of law and asserting its rights over its EEZ and continental shelf.
The DFA’s response further reinforces the Philippines’ position and emphasizes that any resolution to the WPS issue should be based on international law and established through proper diplomatic channels.
Protecting Sovereignty and Promoting Stability
For the Philippines, protecting its sovereignty and promoting stability in the West Philippine Sea are paramount. The country relies heavily on the resources in the area, such as fish stocks and potential oil and gas reserves, for its economic development.
Moreover, the West Philippine Sea is a vital international shipping route, with trillions of dollars’ worth of goods passing through its waters each year. Ensuring the freedom of navigation and maintaining peace and stability in the region is not only in the Philippines’ interest but also in the interest of the international community.
Efforts to ease tensions and find a peaceful resolution to the disputes in the West Philippine Sea have been ongoing. The Philippines has pursued diplomatic negotiations and engaged in multilateral dialogues with other claimant states and regional organizations.
However, the challenges in the region persist. The Philippines continues to call on all parties involved to respect international law, exercise self-restraint, and work towards a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea.
Conclusion
Senator Jinggoy Estrada’s denouncement of the Chinese “new model” proposed for the West Philippine Sea issue highlights the Philippines’ commitment to upholding its rights and sovereignty in the region. The DFA’s response further reinforces the country’s position and emphasizes the importance of resolving the disputes based on international law and through diplomatic channels.
As the West Philippine Sea remains a contentious issue, it is crucial for all parties involved to exercise self-restraint, respect international law, and work towards a peaceful and rules-based resolution. The Philippines, as a claimant state, will continue to assert its rights and promote stability in the region, not only for its own interests but also for the benefit of the international community.
Source: The Manila Times