SENATORS from the majority and minority blocs have filed a resolution expressing grave concern over the increasing militarization by China in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Eight senators signed Senate Resolution 761 that also urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to file a diplomatic protest against China for its recent actions in the disputed waters. Those who signed the resolution were Senators Francis Pangilinan, Ralph Recto, Franklin Drilon, Joseph Victor Ejercito, Paolo Benigno Aquino 4th, Antonio Trillanes 4th, Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima. He echoed President Rodrigo Duterte’s remarks that the Philippines would not go to war against China. Despite this constitutional restriction, the President has pushed a joint exploration deal with China, a position shared by Cayetano.

Source: Manila Times May 30, 2018 16:25 UTC