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Advocates Philippines
Cayetano On 'Pro-China' Tag: Calling Out China Won't Do Our Fishermen, Coast Guard Any Good
Photo credit: Senate PH
In response to accusations of being "pro-China," Senator Alan Peter Cayetano asserts that prioritizing strong rhetoric against China might harm Filipino fishermen and Coast Guard personnel in the West Philippine Sea.
In an interview on July 31, the senator, who previously served as Foreign Affairs Secretary under President Rodrigo Duterte, emphasized the need for a balanced and cautious approach.
Cayetano emphasized that resorting to harsh language to gain popularity would be counterproductive. He stated that he would rather face criticism for doing what is right than jeopardize the safety and economic rights of his fellow countrymen.
Drawing on his experience during the Duterte administration, Cayetano highlighted the positive outcomes achieved through calm and circumspect bilateral talks with China. He cited how such dialogues allowed Filipino fishermen to continue fishing in the West Philippine Sea and ensured the smooth delivery of supplies to Ayungin Shoal.
The senator's position comes amid discussions among lawmakers, members of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the National Security Council, and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The closed-door meeting aimed to address Senate Resolution 659, which calls on the government to file a resolution before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to denounce China's harassment of Philippine vessels in the WPS.
Cayetano recommended a cautious approach and advocated consulting with the Executive to gather accurate information before adopting the resolution. He expressed concerns that a bold move at the UN might not yield favorable results, as the UNGA lacks an enforcement mechanism, and countries, including China, cannot be compelled to comply.
Urging his fellow lawmakers not to raise false hopes, Cayetano advised against portraying the Philippines as boldly standing up to China without achieving tangible outcomes. He stressed the importance of addressing the issue assertively while considering the limitations of the UNGA's influence.
In conclusion, Senator Cayetano advocates for a calm and measured response towards China, ensuring the protection of Filipino fishermen and Coast Guard personnel in the West Philippine Sea while seeking effective solutions through diplomatic channels.
In an interview on July 31, the senator, who previously served as Foreign Affairs Secretary under President Rodrigo Duterte, emphasized the need for a balanced and cautious approach.
Cayetano emphasized that resorting to harsh language to gain popularity would be counterproductive. He stated that he would rather face criticism for doing what is right than jeopardize the safety and economic rights of his fellow countrymen.
Drawing on his experience during the Duterte administration, Cayetano highlighted the positive outcomes achieved through calm and circumspect bilateral talks with China. He cited how such dialogues allowed Filipino fishermen to continue fishing in the West Philippine Sea and ensured the smooth delivery of supplies to Ayungin Shoal.
The senator's position comes amid discussions among lawmakers, members of the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the National Security Council, and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The closed-door meeting aimed to address Senate Resolution 659, which calls on the government to file a resolution before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to denounce China's harassment of Philippine vessels in the WPS.
Cayetano recommended a cautious approach and advocated consulting with the Executive to gather accurate information before adopting the resolution. He expressed concerns that a bold move at the UN might not yield favorable results, as the UNGA lacks an enforcement mechanism, and countries, including China, cannot be compelled to comply.
Urging his fellow lawmakers not to raise false hopes, Cayetano advised against portraying the Philippines as boldly standing up to China without achieving tangible outcomes. He stressed the importance of addressing the issue assertively while considering the limitations of the UNGA's influence.
In conclusion, Senator Cayetano advocates for a calm and measured response towards China, ensuring the protection of Filipino fishermen and Coast Guard personnel in the West Philippine Sea while seeking effective solutions through diplomatic channels.
Aug 1, 2023
