The political coalition 1Sambayan is advocating for a clear resolution to the ongoing territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This call for action is particularly significant given the recent increase in aggressive maneuvers by China in the area.
Urgent Call for International Legal Action
This is not an alternative to standing our ground. It is how a country of our size stands. We undid the nine-dash line with a pleading and not a fleet, and that instrument remains in our hands.
1Sambayan Coalition
1Sambayan insists that the unresolved maritime issues should be presented to an international tribunal. They argue that the Philippines should not settle for temporary quietude while China's claims continue to encroach on Philippine waters.
The coalition referenced the 2016 arbitral ruling, which invalidated China’s expansive claims over the region, notably the nine-dash line. This ruling is seen as a cornerstone in affirming the Philippines’ sovereignty over its Exclusive Economic Zone.
In their statement, 1Sambayan also condemned China's ongoing violations of the arbitral decision, particularly regarding the Scarborough Shoal, a traditional fishing ground for Filipino, Chinese, and Vietnamese fishermen.
The coalition is pressing for a more robust Philippine Coast Guard presence in disputed areas like Ayungin Shoal, advocating for the establishment of a sub-station there to enhance maritime security.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has previously warned that neglecting the WPS could lead to significant resource shortages for the country.