Philippine lawmakers have condemned China's recent deployment of a floating platform in Bajo de Masinloc, citing it as a serious threat to national sovereignty and regional stability.
Lawmakers Unite Against Provocative Actions
The People's Republic of China's actions are a direct assault on our sovereignty and a dangerous escalation that threatens regional peace and stability.
House Young Guns bloc
- Rep. Leila De Lima of the Mamamayang Liberal Partylist
- Zambales 1st District Rep. Jay Khonghun
- La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega V
- Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong
The House Young Guns bloc, along with De Lima, criticized China's actions as illegal and provocative. They stated, "We stand united with the Filipino people and the entire government in defending every inch of our territory and exclusive economic zone."
According to findings from the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, a 6-by-6-meter floating platform, along with other structures, has been installed inside the shoal. This includes communication antennas and floating buoys.
De Lima emphasized that the floating installation is likely equipped with monitoring systems, aligning with a historical pattern where China escalates from temporary structures to permanent facilities. She stated, "The Filipino people have every reason to view this latest development with grave concern."
The lawmakers have called for the immediate removal of these installations, urging compliance with international laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.