China declared its territorial jurisdiction. New high seas in east and south Ssia, giving notice to all its neighbors that it intends to enforce its claims.
Filipino fishermen from Zambales, for centuries, have been fishing in the South China Sea.
This is the classic scenario of David and Goliath. Luckily, all the other countries in east and south Asia are also defending their respective territorial seas, boundaries and rules of safe conduct, defined under the UN Convention of the Law of the Seas.
The Philippines has taken its protest to the UN. China is not submitting to UN mediation, stating it will withdraw if the Philippines will also withdraw.
So far, diplomatic engagement is the best recourse for the Philippines, as it cannot repel the naval superiority of China. With 82 modern vessels, against two old and poorly- maintained Coast Guard boats, the Philippines is overmatched.
But the main deterrent to an apparent bullying from China are the Philippines’ alliances with Asian neighbors and the US. Japan and South Korea are among the countries that have manifested thier strong support to the Philippines.
By all accounts, it is Japan that can match the naval superiority of China, and have so far pledged to give aid in terms of vessels and aircraft.
South Korea, likewise, has made several commitments to stand and support our territorial claims.
US President Obama is including the Philippines in his Asia round, as their ostensible ally of the countries affected by the China declarations.
Filipinos can hear a sigh of relief, P-Noy has beefed up the Armed Forces with the purchase of new aircraft and Coast Guard ships.
By and large, the Philippines should and must prepare to defend its national sovereignty and honor.
This is the new Cold War.
_______________________________
Author’s email: whelmayap@yahoo.com
