Senator Pangilinan Slams Chinese Embassy's 'Undiplomatic' Conduct, Defends Arbitral Award
Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan has issued a strong rebuke against the Chinese Embassy in Manila, emphasizing that its recent trolling and disrespectful behavior toward Filipino lawmakers holds no power to reverse the historic 2016 arbitral award. This landmark ruling, issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, invalidated China's expansive territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea, affirming the Philippines' sovereign rights under international law.
Senate Resolution Calls for Diplomatic Respect and Action
Leading the charge, Senator Pangilinan spearheaded Senate Resolution No. 256, which garnered the signatures of 15 senators. The resolution formally urges Chinese officials to:
- Cease all undiplomatic actions and provocations against Philippine representatives.
- Uphold respect for the sovereignty and maritime rights of the Philippines as established by international legal frameworks.
- Adhere to standard diplomatic protocols that foster constructive dialogue rather than hostility.
In his statement, Pangilinan underscored that the role of any diplomatic mission should be to "exercise diplomacy, not to provoke or insult those who speak for the nation." He further asserted that the arbitral award is permanent and irrevocable, noting that "it will not disappear through trolling, insults, or pressure."
DFA Urged to Uphold International Standards
The Senate resolution also calls upon the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to take appropriate measures to ensure that the Philippines' foreign relations are conducted in accordance with:
- Mutual respect between nations.
- Adherence to established international norms and standards.
- The protection of national interests in maritime domains.
This development highlights ongoing tensions in the region, as the Philippines continues to assert its rights following the arbitral ruling. The resolution reflects a unified legislative stance against actions perceived as undermining Philippine sovereignty and the rule of law.
