MANILA, Philippines — Exactly a year before the 2022 elections, a lawmaker said those eyeing the presidency should go beyond general statements and offer a clear policy on dealing with the country's maritime dispute in the West Philippine Sea. In 2016, then candidate Duterte vowed to ride a jet ski to Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal and plant the country's flag there. The president has since repeatedly played down incidents of the Chinese harassing of Filipino fishermen in the waters. One thing to consider, Biazon added, is shifting the Armed Forces of the Philippines' focus to external defense. The Commission on Elections has said that the 2022 polls will proceed amid the pandemic, as it eyes changes in campaigning and voting practices.

Source: Philippine Star May 09, 2021 04:18 UTC