In recent years, the sight of Chinese Coast Guard vessels patrolling within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has become disturbingly commonplace. These incursions are not just a test of maritime boundaries but a direct affront to our national sovereignty and identity, raising crucial questions about the integrity and effectiveness of our current political leadership. The Philippine Coast Guard and Navy’s inaction in the face of these aggressive maneuvers is a glaring sign of weakness and a betrayal of the public trust. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM) swept into office with promises of a “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines), a vision of a stronger, more independent nation that prioritizes the welfare and interests of its citizens. Yet, as Chinese vessels assert dominance in our very own waters, this vision appears increasingly hollow.
The government’s lax stance not only undermines our territorial claims but also highlights a troubling disconnect between political rhetoric and reality. The situation in the West Philippine Sea is not merely a geopolitical issue; it is a matter of national dignity and survival. The EEZ, as defined by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), grants the Philippines exclusive rights to explore and exploit marine resources within 200 nautical miles from our coastline. China’s aggressive presence in these waters is a direct challenge to these rights and an audacious display of their expansionist ambitions within the region.
Despite international rulings, including the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration’s decision favoring the Philippines, our government has shown a disconcerting reluctance to confront these violations head-on. The Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Navy, tasked with protecting our maritime interests, have been conspicuously passive, their silence and inaction speaking volumes. This passivity is not just a failure of policy but a dangerous precedent that could embolden further encroachments.
The Filipino people must not forget these events. The 2025 midterm elections present a critical opportunity to hold our leaders accountable and elect representatives who will prioritize Philippine interests over foreign intrusion. We need members of Congress with the courage and conviction to stand up to external pressures and defend our sovereignty. This is not a call for reckless antagonism but for a principled and assertive stance that upholds the rule of law and the rights of the Filipino people.
As we approach the elections, it is imperative that we the electorate scrutinize the track records of our candidates. We must ask ourselves: Who among them has consistently demonstrated a commitment to our national interests? Who has the resolve to challenge foreign incursions and advocate for a stronger, more self-reliant Philippines? The answers to these questions will shape the future of our nation.
The current administration’s failure to address this issue undermines our sovereignty and exposes the fragility of the promises made under the banner of “Bagong Pilipinas.” As we prepare to cast our votes in 2025, let us remember these betrayals and choose leaders who will truly defend the Philippines and its people. Our future depends on it.
