JV Ejercito urges ASEAN+3 dialogue on peace, security in West Philippine Sea
October 13, 2024
Senate Senior Deputy Majority Leader Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito called for a strengthened dialogue among ASEAN+3 Parliamentarians to address the region’s peace and security challenges, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement delivered during the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland on Sunday, Ejercito emphasized the need for “frank and open discussions” to resolve disputes and maintain stability in the region.
“I invite you all to join the Philippines in a friendly and neighborly conversation so we can begin a parliamentary dialogue that I hope will also shine a light on the harassment and intimidation that my country, and some of our other neighbors, are receiving at increasinglyly frequent rates,” Ejercito said.
Ejercito urged his fellow parliamentarians to support diplomatic efforts, particularly as negotiations for the ASEAN-China Code of Conduct in the West Philippines Sea are being pushed forward.
He reaffirmed the Philippines' firm position that any resolution to maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea must be grounded in international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
He assured the assembly that the Philippines remains resolute in defending its sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in these waters.
"We are also thankful to our friendly neighbors and growing list of partners who stand with us shoulder-to-shoulder in preserving, defending, and strengthening the rules-based regional order," Ejercito added.
Despite ongoing disputes, Ejercito said that the Philippines will continue to advocate for peace, bolstering partnerships while seeking amicable solutions to differences.
"We do not want war. We do not want conflict. We want to resolve the issue peacefully and find an amicable settlement," Ejercito declared, emphasizing the country's commitment to peaceful negotiations.
He expressed optimism that through collective efforts, ASEAN+3 nations can maintain regional stability and secure a peaceful future for all.