Malacañang reiterated on Thursday (May 20) that the Duterte administration’s policies concerning the West Philippine Sea have not changed, and that the country will never give away its territories despite seeking a peaceful resolution, in response to some senators’ call for a stronger stand on the issue.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said: “Wala pong confusion… Ang hindi pupuwedeng mapagkasunduan, isasantabi muna, isusulong ang mga bagay-bagay na pupuwedeng maisulong kagaya ng kalakalan at pamumuhunan,” Roque said.
On Thursday, Senator Grace Poe called for the government to come up “with a clear and united stand” on the issue,” and that it “would be a timely intervention” to immediately convene the National Security Council.
This proposal was earlier pushed by former Senator Rodolfo Biazon who believes the council can provide a “very clear projection of clear united and national position.”
“If he allows the public to eavesdrop on these counselling sessions, mas mabuti kasi kasama po ang taumbayan. It would serve us all well if he will also hold friendly chats with other academics and experts who may provide a different perspective,” Senator Joel Villanueva also advised.
Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte is open for a convention and is also considering inviting more personalities, including the nation’s former presidents.
“Kung kinakailangan, iniisip niya imbitahin ang mga dating mga presidente, ilang mga personalidad para magkaroon ng isang pagpupulong to discuss the issue,” he said.
“Wala pa pong date. Kagaya ng aking sinabi, the President is considering the idea of an alternative to convening the National Security Council,” he added. – Report from Mela Lesmoras/AG-jlo
