MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto wants foreign entities involved in activities that “infringe” on Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea and other areas within its territory barred from securing government contracts and conducting business in the country. Recto recently filed Senate Resolution No. Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. initially said he would “strongly” recommend the termination of contracts with Chinese firms involved in the construction of artificial islands in the disputed waterway. But the Palace said President Rodrigo Duterte decided to push through with China-backed projects in the Philippines despite the move of the United States. He also called on the government to ensure prudence in the use of public funds and foreign development assistance, to protect and secure local businesses and enterprises as well as preserve the integrity of government institutions and public service.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer September 08, 2020 03:22 UTC