Photo courtesy of Ping Lacson/Facebook.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said any future engagement with the Chinese Embassy over the West Philippine Sea will focus on communication channels and not involve ceding Philippine territory.
He clarified that the discussions, proposed after Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan expressed willingness to meet Philippine leaders, aim to prevent misunderstandings and avoid heated exchanges on social media.
Lacson emphasized that the Philippines will not yield to pressure or make concessions simply to ease tensions. He said the goal is transparency and clarity in diplomatic communication.
“Wala tayong sinusuko at ‘di tayo yumuyuko. Gusto lang natin maiwasan ang maaanghang na palitan ng salita through social media. Mas maganda ang direktang pag-uusap” Lacson told reporters during a radio interview.
He welcomed Sen. Erwin Tulfo’s initiative to meet with Chinese officials as chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. Tulfo is expected to brief fellow senators during a caucus following his scheduled meeting.
Lacson also highlighted the importance of unity among lawmakers before engaging foreign counterparts, noting that public disagreements over the West Philippine Sea project a negative image internationally.
He recalled how disputes among senators over territorial ownership looked improper, stressing that the areas in question are clearly within Philippine sovereignty or exclusive economic zones.
The senator reiterated that any dialogue with China will focus on establishing direct communication, promoting mutual understanding, and avoiding unnecessary tensions without compromising national interests.