Senate condemns Chinese Embassy

THE Senate on Monday adopted a resolution condemning the Chinese Embassy in Manila over its statements attacking Philippine officials and uniformed personnel over their stance on the South China Sea.

During a Plenary session, senators adopted Senate Resolution No. 256 which condemned the Chinese Embassy officials over their criticism of Philippine officials, following two weeks of heated debate.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately reply to a Viber message seeking comment.

The resolution also affirms the Philippines’ sovereign right and responsibility to defend its position over the disputed waterway.

It also calls on the Department of Foreign Affairs to take necessary diplomatic measures to uphold the country’s dignity and ensure that relations with other countries are conducted in accordance with international law and established principles of foreign relations.

Senator Francis Pancratius N. Pangilinan, who drafted the resolution, said the approval remains subject to style, which requires technical, grammatical, or formatting revisions.

Senators had debated for weeks over the country’s claims on part of the South China Sea.

Tensions between Manila and Beijing have intensified amid repeated encounters at sea. Philippine officials have reported incidents involving Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels, including harassment and dangerous maneuvers such as the use of water cannons near features Manila considers part of its exclusive economic zone. — Adrian H. Halili