Ridon: We respect ties with China, but West Philippine Sea is ours

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MANILA, Philippines — While ties with China on different aspects like diplomatic, economic, trade, and culture must be respected, Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon reminded…

MANILA, Philippines — While ties with China on different aspects like diplomatic, economic, trade, and culture must be respected, Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Terry Ridon reminded authorities on Sunday that there is a line drawn in terms of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) ownership.

In a statement, Ridon said: “With the opening of the Asean [Association of Southeast Asian Nations] Summit today, it is important to clarify: The West Philippine Sea belongs to the Philippines. The West Philippine Sea is for the Filipinos.”

“Although we have relations with China in different aspects, from diplomatic, economic, trade, cultural, and other areas, there is a red line in discussions about the WPS,” he added.

Ridon issued the statement as Asean member states meet again to discuss several matters, including security concerns over the region, especially since several nations have claimed ownership of different portions of the South China Sea.

“Ang sovereign rights of the WPS, the use of resources under the seabed, islands, and waters of the WPS are for the Philippines only. These are for Filipinos only,” he noted.

The Philippines is hosting the 49th Asean Summit and Related Summits from Nov. 15 to 17, for regional leaders to discuss key political, security, and economic issues.

The main events will be held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Aside from Asean leaders, several heads of state and high-ranking officials from other areas are expected to attend, like United States President Donald Trump, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Chinese President Xi Jingping will not attend, but Premier Li Qiang will be in Manila for the summit.

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