Legislators defend PBBM from harsh China remarks

MANILA —  President Marcos received words of support on Thursday from allies in the House of Representatives after getting chastised by the Chinese foreign ministry for congratulating Taiwan’s president-elect on his election victory.

“President Marcos, as the elected leader of our sovereign nation, holds the prerogative to extend congratulations and foster amicable relations with global leaders,” Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. said, justifying Marcos’ message to Taiwan president-elect Lai Ching-te.

The Pampanga third district representative explained that Marcos’ gesture “aligns with our country’s diplomatic principles and commitment to fostering positive international relations.”

As highlighted by the significant number of Filipinos contributing to Taiwan’s society and economy, Gonzales also cited what he called profound people-to-people relations between Manila and Taipei.

“Our connections go beyond diplomatic formalities. They are rooted in the shared aspirations and hard work of our people,” he said.

Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, for his part, observed that China’s harsh response to Marcos’ action was a display of “arrogance” as well as its “vassal state treatment over us.”

“We are not your subjects and our country is not a vassal state that owes allegiance to China. Do not treat us like one, not even in your wildest dreams and imagination,” he said.

“You act like you own the Philippines, and you seem like wanting to use water cannon to shut us up. You have not the slightest sovereignty over us and yet you want to prevent us from exercising our rights to express our sentiments,” he said in Filipino.

“Did we empower you in any way to draft an IRR on our 1987 Constitution that gives you the right to amend our Bill of Rights?” Barbers, chairman of the House committee on dangerous drugs, said.

“Make no mistake about it, we will fight to keep our freedom, independence and our rights as a sovereign nation. Whoever threatens our free existence, we shall fight against and resist to the last man,” he said.

Survey results welcomed

Meanwhile, the National Security Council (NSC) said it welcomes the results of a recent Pulse Asia survey showing 79 percent of respondents supporting the Marcos administration’s effort to work with the United States and other partners in defending the country’s territorial waters.

“We appreciate the trust and confidence our countrymen place in our strategic alliances and diplomatic efforts. We thank the public for their support underscoring the significance of fostering international partnerships. This affirmation not only reinforces the correctness of our position but also highlights the shared commitment to safeguarding our nation’s interests in the global arena,” National Security adviser Eduardo Año said.

Año said the NSC takes note of the public’s suggestions on measures the administration can undertake to assert the country’s rights in the West Philippine Sea, with a substantial 67 percent of survey respondents emphasizing the importance of strengthening external defense capabilities of the Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force and Philippine Coast Guard.

He noted that 56 percent of the survey respondents advocate reinforcing alliances through joint patrols and military exercises with like-minded countries, echoing the need for a collaborative approach.

“The survey underscores the urgency to address the situation by establishing a stronger military presence in the West Philippine Sea, as suggested by 52 percent of respondents. The call for improving inter-agency cooperation in maritime security is also echoed by another 52 percent,” he said.

Año said a majority or 52 percent of respondents believe that the Marcos administration can fulfill its promise of protecting the WPS against illegal and aggressive actions by other states particularly China.

“This confidence reflects the public’s trust in the administration’s commitment to safeguarding our territorial integrity and maritime interests,” he said.

According to Año, the respondents, who were given the option to choose three countries or organizations, also highlighted the importance of collaboration with Australia and Japan, both garnering 43 percent and 42 percent support, respectively.

“This reinforces the shared values and commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and the commitment to a rules-based international order,” he emphasized.