Gatchalian: Start of talks on sea code a ‘watershed moment’ for regional security

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Wednesday hailed as a “watershed moment for regional security” the start of negotiations for a proposed code of conduct in the South China Sea.

"This is the first time in 15 years that ASEAN and China have made any real progress toward settling the longstanding disputes in the West Philippine and South China seas,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

The Philippines refers to parts of the disputed South China Sea as the West Philippine Sea. Apart from China and the Philippines, other claimants include Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.

“This is a pivotal step toward inking a comprehensive agreement which will permanently diffuse tensions in the disputed areas by creating a lasting framework for the equitable navigation and use of these crucial waters," Gatchalian added.

ASEAN leaders and China on Monday announced the start of the negotiations for the Code of Conduct based on the framework approved by foreign ministers last August.

Negotiations, according to Foreign Affairs spokesman Robespierre Bolivar, are likely to commence next year as Singapore took over the rotating ASEAN chairmanship from the Philippines.

A regional code of conduct aims to prevent conflicting territorial claims in the vast, potentially oil-rich region from erupting into violent confrontations or, worse, an economically devastating major conflict. However, efforts to finalize the accord have dragged on for 15 years.

Senator JV Ejercito, for his part, said the government should still insist on the Philippines' victory against China before the arbitral tribunal last year.

"We should still pursue the victory in Hague and defend our territorial integrity at all costs," Ejercito said in a text message to reporters.

"China has obviously been bullying us and the smaller ASEAN nations. The only way we can stand up against a super power like China is for ASEAN nations to unite," Ejercito added.

Meanwhile, Gatchalian commended Duterte and the Philippine diplomatic corps for the hosting this year's ASEAN activities.

"Through the able leadership of President Duterte, the ASEAN member-states and their dialogue partners were able to build the foundation for meaningful change in Southeast Asia,” the senator said.

“I am confident that the next ASEAN chair, Singapore, will build upon the foundation we have put in place as we strive to accelerate economic development and promote social justice in the region," he added. —ALG, GMA News