Ramp up diplomatic defense against China

China’s recent deployment of surface-to-air missiles to Woody Island inside the Paracel Islands was more reason for the Philippines to bolster its ties with other bullied countries in the West Philippine Sea.

While this deployment of missiles may be outside our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), this has ramifications on our sovereignty. We can’t wait for the People’s Liberation Army (Chinese Army) to also deploy advanced military hardware within striking distance from our shores.

The Chinese government has no intent to de-escalate the tense situation in the West Philippine Sea. On the contrary, it is moving towards full militarization of all islands in the disputed area. Their actions seem to indicate they are tilting towards a military option for a diplomatic problem such as the conflicting claims.

Now is the right time to strengthen cooperation among the ASEAN countries. Our neighbors are equally troubled by this flexing of military muscle by the Chinese government. Now, more than ever, we need a united front against Chinese militarization and occupation of the West Philippine Sea.

We also urge government to create contingency plans for civilian communities within and along the West Philippine Sea who are affected by China’s territorial encroachment.

Our top priority should definitely ensure the safety of our communities. We have seen the kind of treatment our fishermen have received from Chinese Coast Guard personnel. More confrontations will occur as Chinese presence increases.