By Robert B. Roque, Jr.
In the tumult of China’s assertiveness in the West Philippine Sea, legal and security experts are suggesting that Manila hold joint patrols with foreign allies when setting out for a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal, where the BRP Sierra Madre stands tall as a symbol of national ownership.
Joint patrols should emerge as a commendable strategy for the Philippines, as it had worked for Malaysia and Indonesia in their respective collaborations with allies to safeguard their sovereignty.
This action is a viable option for the Philippines and is far from provoking war. Instead, it would showcase the strategic partnership with the United States and other allies in calling for adherence to maritime norms.
It would tell the world that the power of unity and diplomacy remains steadfast amid aggression. It would also send a strong message to China that its belligerent actions have consequences. These patrols would only steer us toward stability and emphasize our stance that international cooperation speaks louder than confrontation.
In this respect, let’s not forget that Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam have claims in the South China Sea that Beijing is also drubbing. It wouldn’t be surprising if these nations and their other powerful allies, apart from the US, also show up for joint patrols.
Once the Philippines and its allies navigate these waves, China must discern that the international community cannot stand idly by as its coast guard and militia ships flout international law and that Beijing cannot ignore the 2016 ruling that debunked its sweeping territorial claims over the South China Sea.
Sacla opens in Bacoor, jueteng in Paranaque
Illegal gambling is turning its ugly head again, this time in Bacoor, Cavite, where “sacla” (Spanish card game) operations have reopened. Blame that on the alleged complicity of the Police Regional Office 4 (PRO4), which has a new bagman who took the reins from alias “Billy Joe,”, so says Firing Line spies.
In the meantime, an illegal gambling operator known as “Totoy Haruta” has been riding on a wave in nearby Paranaque City in southern Metro Manila.
They’re saying that Totoy Haruta has gone to full-blown “jueteng” and “EZ-2” operations in the city, courtesy of a newfound ally in the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) — a ranking official he fondly and boastfully calls by the nickname, “Tateng.”
Any reactions, Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.?
Still smiling?
At last week’s Senate hearing, the boat captain and owner of the sunken MB Aya Express in Binangonan, Rizal, admitted that there was no regulatory inspection of the vessel.
It’s been established that the tragic sinking of MB Aya Express, which claimed 27 lives, wasn’t just a result of overloading and weather woes. It’s the shocking “pangiti” culture that’s truly damning.
The absurdity of making Philippine Coast Guard inspectors smile with bananas and pocket change exposes a rotten system. Lives lost due to a culture of compromise — unacceptable!
The PCG has denied the allegation, but whatever the denial given by the PCG and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), their negligence and liability are as clear as crystal waters smeared by the blood of innocent victims.
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