More senators on Monday, October 23, deplored the China Coast Guard's fresh acts of agression against the country resulting in its vessels hitting an Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)-contracted resupply boat and a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship.

"We deplore China's dangerous blocking maneuvers in the West Philippine Sea that resulted in a collision between its vessel and two Philippine boats on a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal," Sen. Grace Poe said in a statement.

Poe added that China's latest act of aggression poses a credible concern that could heighten the tension not only between the Philippines and China, but could also be a "potential flashpoint" in the region.

The senator also mentioned that while an immediate diplomatic protest is anticipated, the recent incident highlights the need for the government to rethink its strategy in dealing with China over such actions.

"As we firmly assert our rights in our waters, fortifying our relations with like-minded states must continue to thwart similar belligerent actions," she said.

Sen. Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito also stated that China has gone too far in disrespecting the Philippines.

"The reckless maneuvers executed by the CCG, which resulted in a collision with the AFP-contracted resupply vessel, were not only provocative but also a blatant act of bullying that must be denounced, not only by us but by the international community," Ejercito said.

The senator said China's act of harassment within the country's exclusive economic zone obviously violates its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He also called on the government to strongly assert the 2016 arbitral ruling, which clearly affirms that the Philippines has exclusive rights over the West Philippine Sea.

"This ruling is not only legally binding but a reflection of the principles of international law," he said.

"It is essential to note that this is not the first time the CCG has engaged in such provocative actions against our coastal guards and fisherfolks," Ejercito added.

Ejercito emphasized that it is the government's duty to ensure the safety of our waters for all Filipinos.

"We cannot and will not allow such incidents to jeopardize the safety of our people, particularly those who serve in our armed forces and the PCG," he said.

He also believes it is high time to expedite the modernization of the country's Armed Forces in the coming years to protect our sovereignty, safeguard maritime interests, and ensure the safety and security of Filipino citizens.

Sen. Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr., who first filed the proposed Philippine Maritime Zone Act this Congress, stressed his belief Filipinos will not hesitate in protecting its own territory.

"Those who resort to might usually aren't in the right. Ganyan na nga ang nangyayari kaya nakakabahala na talaga (That is what is happening and it's worrisome)," Revilla said.

"Ganunpaman, dapat malaman ng lahat na kahit ipagpatuloy pa at kahit gaano pa tindihan ang pambu-bully, hindi tayo matitinag (Nevertheless, everyone should know that even if the bullying persists, we will not waver). We will not waver in protecting our territory and our rights," the senator stressed.