Deputy Speaker Ortega Applauds President Marcos' Resolute Position on West Philippine Sea
In a significant show of political support, Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V has publicly commended President Ferdinand Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his steadfast and just stance in defending the nation's sovereignty. This praise comes in the wake of a recent survey revealing that a majority of Filipinos back the government's efforts to protect the West Philippine Sea from external threats.
Survey Highlights Public Backing for Administration's Policies
According to Ortega, the latest survey results confirm that the public's sentiment aligns closely with the administration's position on this critical issue. The data indicates that 60 percent of Filipinos express distrust towards China, with only 13 percent stating that the country should be trusted. Furthermore, the survey found that 79 percent of respondents view China as the most significant external threat to the Philippines, underscoring widespread concerns over regional security.
Beyond Geopolitics: Economic and Food Security Implications
Ortega emphasized that the West Philippine Sea dispute is not merely a geopolitical matter but has direct and tangible impacts on the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen and the nation's food security. He highlighted how the ongoing tensions affect local communities and the broader economic landscape, making it a pressing domestic issue.
Call for Continued Support for National Defense and Coastal Communities
In his statement, the Deputy Speaker stressed the importance of sustained support for key institutions such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard. He also called for bolstering assistance to coastal communities, which play a vital role in advancing the country's maritime rights. Ortega's remarks reinforce the need for a unified approach in safeguarding Philippine interests in the region.
