Romualdez commends Marcos for raising West Philippine Sea issue at ASEAN-Australia Summit
At A Glance
- House Speaker Martin Romualdez gave props Wednesday, March 6 to President Marcos for what he described as the latter's "initiative to put a spotlight" on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue at the ASEAN-Australia Summit.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Speaker’s office, MANILA BULLETIN)
House Speaker Martin Romualdez gave props Wednesday, March 6 to President Marcos for what he described as the latter’s "initiative to put a spotlight" on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue at the ASEAN-Australia Summit.
Romualdez also cited Marcos' move to bolster the strategic alliance between the Philippines and Australia, and contribute significantly toward enhanced engagement between Australia and ASEAN member-states.
“During the summit, President Marcos reaffirmed the strategic alliance between the Philippines and Australia, emphasizing the shared values and mutual interests that bind our nations together. This reaffirmation underscores the importance of fostering robust partnerships in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges,” the Speaker said in a statement Wednesday, March 6.
“At a time of escalating tensions and provocative actions by China, President Marcos's call for adherence to a rules-based order and peaceful resolution of disputes is both timely and crucial. It reaffirms our nation's commitment to promoting stability and security in the region through dialogue and cooperation,” he pointed out.
Romualdez, Marcos' top ally in the legislature, was part of the official Philippine delegation to the summit.
On Tuesday, China Coast Guard (CCG) ships fired a water cannon at one of the Philippine vessels that were on a resupply misison to Ayungin Shoal. The water cannon attack shattered the windshield of the vessel and caused minor injuries to at least four crew members.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the "reckless" and "illegal" actions of the CCG led to a collision between a Chinese and Philippine ship. The latter sustained minor structural damage as a result.
ASEAN stands for Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Romualdez likewise noted that during the two-day state visit of President Marcos to Australia, three key agreements between the two countries were signed, including one on enhanced interoperatibility in maritime domain and maritime environment.
“This agreement holds paramount importance, particularly in the face of escalating provocative actions by China in the South China Sea. By solidifying this pact, President Marcos has underscored our nation's unwavering commitment to upholding maritime security and safeguarding the interests of all nations in the region,” Romualdez explained.
“President Marcos can count on the unwavering commitment of the House of Representatives in support of his initiatives to preserve peace and stability in the region and his courageous stance in defense of our country’s territory and sovereignty,” he added.