You can’t make this stuff up, can you?
Duterte wants the Philippines to become a province of China while in office, and he trashes the Philippines’ claim over the West Philippine Sea.
Did he genuinely serve the interests of the Philippines or promote China's goals during his presidency? I believe it’s the second premise, and that’s a shame because his domestic and foreign policies were pro-CCP and supportive of Xi Jinping. Do you remember his pronouncement in 2016 when he said, “It’s time to say goodbye to Washington.” (Foreign Policy, November 2, 2021)
Duterte telling Xi Jinping to make the Philippines one of China’s provinces is tantamount to Treason.
The West Philippine Sea and the expanse of the South China Sea aren’t only strategically important to China’s military expansion in the Indo-Pacific region. These areas are also abundant in mineral resources, including oil, gas, and other forms of natural gas, and rank among the largest in the world. Additionally, 12 percent of the global fish catch originates from these areas. Moreover, around 21 percent of worldwide trade passes through the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, equating to $3.4 trillion in annual global trade.
China has no legal and historical claims to the West Philippine Sea. Its almost daily military aggressions against the Philippine Navy vessels and the local fishermen's boats aren't only unlawful but dangerous as well. It should necessitate a robust condemnation from the world, especially given China's regular mockery of the legal frameworks outlined in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Unfortunately, ASEAN members are hesitant to express their views on this matter. However, the United States, the AUKUS alliance (comprising the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia), and the First Island Chain countries (including Japan and Taiwan) have been vocal in their support for the Philippines and in their condemnation of China's actions.
Might isn't right when a powerful country like China flexes its military strength to harm and bully a small but sovereign nation like the Philippines. The Hague Permanent Court of Arbitration, an international tribunal, ruled in 2016 that the Philippines is the rightful claimant to the West Philippine Sea, which encompasses the Spratly Islands. This ruling is significant as it upholds the principles of international law and maritime rights. And China defies this international law with its relentless military provocations against the Philippines in the air and on the seas.
However, Duterte said in 2021 that he'll 'throw away' Philippines' arbitral win vs China, “Sa usapang bugoy, sabihin ko sa iyo ibigay mo sa'kin, sabihin ko sa'yo putang ina, papel lang 'yan. Itatapon ko 'yan sa wastebasket.” (Phil Star, May 6, 2021)
In my parting shot, I'll say, you mustn't idolize a man who mocks and calls God stupid.
So, when the leaders of the Diehard Duterte Supporters (DDS), a political group known for its unwavering support of Duterte, ask their Filipino supporters to pray for Duterte while he’s in the custody of International Criminal Court’s prison guards, who’s the god they’re asking for help, and who are they asking for the deliverance of the former president?
Quiboloy?
It's about time to assert the Philippines' sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. This isn't just a task for our leaders but a responsibility that all Filipinos must share. We must unite as a Nation behind the Sun and Stars and stand together in defense of our sovereignty.
Duterte is gone.
