SEN. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito clarified that he did not want the Philippines and China to sever their ties when he sought the replacement of Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian for not helping diffuse the tension in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The senator on Tuesday expressed his concerns about Huang’s “abrasive” personality, which he believes is not helpful in resolving the differences between Manila and Beijing over conflicting claims in the South China Sea. In a recent meeting, it was reported that Huang pointed his fingers at Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., warning him “not to provoke China.”
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri earlier stated that the President should send Huang home since he has “done nothing” to address the harassment by China Coast Guard and Chinese maritime militia of Filipinos on resupply missions in the WPS.
“Instead of pacifying, he is adding fuel to the fire. We are hoping that he will be replaced to ease the situation,” Ejercito said.
Ejercito understands President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s position in not supporting calls for Huang’s replacement. “He is right because the ambassador will only convey his country’s position on certain matters. They will naturally push for that,” Ejercito said.
“We have to respect the discretion of the President. The President said it is his (Huang’s) job. I am hoping that the ambassador will be effective in bridging any gap between the Philippines and China,” he added.
Ejercito emphasized that as a diplomat, Huang “should be the one keeping the lines of communication open between the two countries.” He referred to the incidents on December 9 and December 10 when Chinese vessels fired water cannons at Philippine boats on resupply missions to Filipino fishermen in Bajo de Masinloc and Filipino troops in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“They have no regard for human lives. They have gone from unlawfully blocking us from navigating our own waters to deliberately damaging our vessels and endangering the lives of our people,” Zubiri said in a statement.
The tensions in the West Philippine Sea have been a cause for concern not only for the Philippines but also for the international community. The conflicting claims in the South China Sea have been a longstanding issue, with multiple countries asserting their rights over the disputed territories.
The Philippines, as a claimant state, has been actively seeking peaceful resolutions and diplomatic negotiations to address the disputes. However, the recent incidents involving Chinese vessels have escalated tensions and raised questions about China’s intentions in the region.
It is crucial for diplomats like Huang Xilian to play a constructive role in easing tensions and promoting dialogue between the Philippines and China. Open lines of communication and a willingness to address concerns are essential for maintaining stability and fostering cooperation in the region.
While President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed his support for Huang, it is important to consider the impact of the ambassador’s actions on the overall bilateral relationship. The replacement of Huang with a diplomat who can effectively bridge the gap between the two countries could potentially contribute to a more constructive and cooperative approach in resolving the disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
The international community will be closely watching how the situation unfolds and how both the Philippines and China navigate the challenges in the region. It is in the best interest of all parties involved to prioritize peaceful resolutions and respect international laws and norms to ensure the stability and prosperity of the region.
In conclusion, Senator JV Ejercito’s call for the replacement of Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian underscores the importance of effective diplomacy and communication in resolving the tensions in the West Philippine Sea. The international community hopes for a peaceful resolution to the conflicting claims and a commitment to upholding international laws and norms in the region.
Source: The Manila Times
