MANILA — Senator JV Ejercito delivered a strong message to Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Jing Quan, asserting the country’s sovereignty and maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement highlighted on October 17, 2026, Ejercito directly addressed the Chinese envoy, declaring, “West Philippine Sea is ours. Go home!”
The senator’s remarks underscored his firm position against China’s claims and activities in the disputed waters, where tensions between Manila and Beijing have persisted.
The Philippines maintains that its maritime entitlements in the West Philippine Sea are protected under international law, including the 2016 arbitral ruling that rejected the legal basis for China’s expansive historic-rights claims within its nine-dash line.
China has rejected the ruling and continues to assert its territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea.
Ejercito’s statement reflects continuing calls among Philippine officials to defend the country’s sovereign rights and protect Filipino fishermen operating in the contested waters.
