By Junex Doronio
STRESSING THAT CHINA must abide by international law, the United States Embassy on Saturday expressed its support for the Philippines following another incident of China’s harassment of the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea.
Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros also urged the two “houses” of Congress to immediately pass the proposed higher budget for the agencies safeguarding the country’s security and sovereignty.
“The PRC’s actions are inconsistent with international law and follow a pattern of dangerous operational behavior in the South China Sea,” the US Embassy said in a statement.
On Friday, November 10, the Philippines lodged another diplomatic protest against China after the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) deployed water cannons during a resupply mission at Ayungin Shoal.
“This incident should push Congress to finally approve a higher budget for the intelligence funds for agencies that defend our territories. When our frontliners in the West Philippine Sea become stronger, so will our national security,” Hontiveros said.
The US Embassy also reiterated that the People’s Republic of China had no claim on Ayungin Shoal and must therefore respect all states’ freedom of navigation as guaranteed under international law.
(ai/mnm)
