Philippine Senator Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, has expressed concern over the government’s recent measures to counter China in the South China Sea, cautioning that emotional decisions could lead the country down a perilous path.
“Emotion rather than reason has prevailed in our maritime conflict with China and is leading us down a dangerous path that will cost us more than just Filipino pride,” Marcos said in a statement released on Monday.
The senator’s remarks come in the wake of an executive order establishing a National Maritime Council, which authorizes the Philippines to accept “donations, contributions, grants, bequests or gifts from domestic and foreign sources” to bolster its defense capabilities.
Marcos warned that accepting such external support could intensify regional tensions. “Such largesse has been the fuel to never-ending conflict,” she noted.
Emphasizing the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions, Marcos urged the government to avoid actions that might endanger Filipino lives. “Every action that may put Filipinos in danger is a gross irresponsibility and must be avoided at all costs,” she stated.
“To prevent yet another regional conflict, what we need instead are solutions for peace from those who claim to be our genuine allies,” Marcos added.
The South China Sea has long been a region of territorial disputes involving multiple countries, with the Philippines and China asserting overlapping claims. The recent developments highlight the complexities of navigating sovereignty issues while maintaining regional stability.
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Philippine senator: Counter-China moves leading to 'dangerous path'
cgtn.com
