Senador Risa Hontiveros has initiated a push for a Senate investigation into the provisional agreement between the Philippines and China regarding resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal.
Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution No. 589, pointing to multiple confrontations in recent years that jeopardized the safety of Filipino military personnel.
The question is: does this agreement work? Because if this is to avoid conflict and to protect our soldiers, then why are they still attacked while they are just doing their job?
(cite: Risa Hontiveros, Senator)
The senator emphasized the need for transparency regarding the agreement, questioning whether it truly serves the interests of the Philippines.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has stated that the Philippines does not need China's permission for its operations at Ayungin Shoal, reaffirming the nation's sovereignty.
Citing the 1987 Constitution, Hontiveros argued that agreements impacting national territory and the lives of military personnel should not be shrouded in secrecy.
She called for enhanced coordination among government agencies to ensure the safety of soldiers undertaking missions in the contested area.
Senator Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan has also expressed interest in investigating the provisional agreement to determine its alignment with the 2016 arbitral ruling.