By Liza Soriano
MANILA – Senator Jinggoy Estrada is calling for an inquiry into an alleged foreign state-sponsored disinformation campaign concerning the West Philippine Sea (WPS) dispute.
Estrada has filed Senate Resolution No. 910, urging the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media to lead an investigation, in aid of legislation, on disseminating false and unfounded narratives about illegal activities and foreign encroachment within Philippine waters.
“Identifying and evaluating the scope and entities behind the disinformation campaign is crucial. This will aid in developing policies and strategies to tackle the issue, dismantle the network of fake news peddlers, and mitigate its adverse impact,” stated Estrada.
The matter of the West Philippine Sea should serve as a unifying force for Filipinos amidst foreign-sponsored discord and division, emphasized the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security chairperson.
In his resolution, Estrada highlighted numerous instances where government officials, media outlets, and maritime experts observed disinformation campaigns and efforts to divert public attention from China’s aggressive actions to allegations of Vietnam’s militarization in the WPS.
“Securing the integrity of the national territory and protecting our maritime entitlements and national sovereignty is of paramount importance to the country,” concluded Estrada.
(el Amigo/MNM)
