Ortega Warns of China’s Encroachment and Candidates Lacking Philippine Support
Paolo Ortega, a senatorial candidate, stated that candidates who do not oppose China’s intrusion in Philippine affairs are not supporting the country. He warned of the risks posed by pro-China candidates potentially funded by foreign interests, particularly regarding territorial claims over Palawan. Ortega underscored the importance of vigilance in the upcoming elections to protect Philippine sovereignty.
In a recent press briefing, Senatorial candidate Paolo Ortega asserted that candidates who do not openly oppose China’s encroachment on Philippine sovereignty signal a lack of support for the nation’s interests. He emphasized the need for candidates to prioritize the Philippines amidst claims by China regarding territorial rights, particularly concerning Palawan. Ortega highlighted concerns over candidates receiving funding from China, warning that such candidates could pose a threat to Philippine sovereignty if elected in the forthcoming 2025 midterm elections.
Ortega pointed out that social media has been rife with misinformation regarding China’s claims to Philippine territories, including digitally altered images of Palawan with Chinese flags. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has firmly declared that Palawan has never belonged to China, asserting the Philippines’ sovereignty over the area. Amidst these tensions, Ortega called for vigilance among Filipinos to prevent the establishment of Chinese structures in Palawan, reflecting on China’s historical claims stretching from the Scarborough Shoal to current assertions.
While Ortega did not name specific candidates, he remarked on a trend of less prominent individuals receiving support from pro-China factions, which he indicated are detrimental to the country’s interests. He expressed skepticism about the motives of such candidates, suggesting that they often shift focus from proposing concrete platforms to criticizing the current administration. His warning illustrates a broader concern about the implications of electing officials with ties to foreign interests, particularly those of China.
Reflecting on the comments made by former President Rodrigo Duterte during his administration, Ortega recalled how Duterte openly joked about potential integration of the Philippines as a Chinese province, which has fueled suspicions about his government’s alignment with Beijing. Consequently, Ortega underscored the importance of a strong and vigilant electoral process to safeguard national sovereignty and protect Philippine interests.
In summary, Paolo Ortega has emphasized the necessity for senatorial candidates to openly defend Philippine sovereignty against China’s encroachments, particularly with respect to Palawan. He cautioned against candidates who may receive foreign funding and warned that their election could endanger national interests. Ortega’s remarks highlight the critical nature of the upcoming elections and the imperative for voters to remain vigilant against potential threats to the Philippines’ territorial integrity.
Original Source: www.inquirer.net
