In time for the 77th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a fisherfolk group told President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to reassert the country’s rights over the West Philippine Sea.
Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya), on Monday morning, Sept. 19, urged Marcos to “reassert national sovereignty” before the UNGA where he is set to speak.
Earlier, Marcos disclosed that he will discuss the country’s “thrust for economic recovery, food, security, and agricultural productivity” in the assembly.
“Marcos should likewise raise the troubles we are facing in utilizing our marine and fishery resources in the Chinese-occupied West Philippine Sea,” said Pamalakaya National Chairperson Fernando Hicap, further urging the President to garner and seek support from the international community.
Apart from this, Hicap likewise called on Marcos to “remind” Chinese representatives to obey the international arbitration, reiterating that China’s reclamation and poaching activities in Philippine waters has led to marine degradation.
“ should not miss this opportunity to seek international support in recovering our territorial waters,” he added.
The fishers’ group previously aired their opposition against the joint energy exploration with China, warning Marcos about the risks that this agreement could bring.