The issue of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is not the “be-all and end-all” of the relationship between the Philippines and China, according to National Maritime Council (NMC) spokesman Undersecretary Alexander Lopez.
In an episode of the Malacañang Insider, Lopez explained that while the focus is on the WPS, the dispute over the waters is not the ultimate indicator of the ties between the Philippines and China.
“Actually, the West Philippine Sea issue is not the be-all and end-all of our relationship with China,” Lopez said. “So, nagkataon lang talaga na ito iyong nagiging focus but I believe our government is doing very well in managing this conflict with China.”
The retired Vice Admiral acknowledged that the WPS is an issue causing tensions between the two countries. However, he assured that the Philippines is managing the WPS situation effectively.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier stated that the government is continuing its efforts to de-escalate tensions in the WPS without compromising the country’s position and principles. PND
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