Tolentino files resolution condemning China's actions in WPS

Senator Francis Tolentino filed Senate Resolution 1347, urging the Senate to condemn China's "provocative and illegal actions" on Sandy Cay (Pag-asa Cay 2) and other maritime features in the West Philippine Sea.

The resolution also calls for asserting the Philippines' sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over these areas based on international law, UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and Republic Act 12064.

Tolentino stated that China's actions are a blatant violation of the Philippine Constitution, an affront to national sovereignty, and a breach of international law and the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

He emphasized that China's continued provocations threaten regional peace and stability and undermine peaceful dispute resolution efforts.

Previously, Senator Tolentino and Senator Risa Hontiveros condemned China's claim of "sovereign jurisdiction" over Sandy Cay, asserting it is within Philippine territorial waters.

Hontiveros noted that Chinese presence has prevented Filipinos from approaching Sandy Cay since 2017 and described China's actions as a "photoshoot gimmick."

The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Martin Romualdez, also condemned China's actions at Sandy Cay, referred to as Tiexian Reef, asserting its undeniable inclusion in Philippine sovereignty within its exclusive economic zone.