QUEZON City, Philippines (January 28) – A youth group is finalizing their plans for a second journey at the disputed islands in the West Philippine Sea. According to Kalayaan Atin Ito movement, their “freedom voyage” aims to convince and encourage Filipinos to join them in a peaceful fight for our territory.
Their first expedition was conducted December 24 last year, despite the warnings and objections of the government due to security reasons.
Others may have admired and applauded them, and might say “Finally, a fellowship that is bold and brave enough!” But I say, this act is a complete nonsense. Even the international arbitral tribunal is not respected and obeyed by China, all the more when it comes to these naïve people. Our Navy and Marine officers –the legal defenders– are just bombarded with water cannons of the Chinese ships, and even have gone in a shoot-out.
The point is, it won’t work. It is not like the EDSA Revolution where you can easily grab the attention of millions of Filipinos and enlist in the fight. During their first trip, only 46 out of the claimed 10,000 student volunteers were allowed and chosen to join.
Another thing is that there wasn’t even a progress gained during in what they call their first “patriotic journey”. Have anyone of us heard a news about China backing out and just gave up to what they’re doing? None, unfortunately.
I’m not a sympathizer of China. The journey is just not the smartest way to settle things. Leave it to the judgment of our government and military branches. Whether we go to war or will just stay put, it’s our responsibility to do whatever we are tasked to do. Protecting and fighting for our country and its bounds is a priority, but we will do it properly and on protocol, not in a thoughtless and naïve manner. Better to die under procedure than to die dumb.
(written by Rex Felix C. Salvador I, edited by Jay Paul Carlos, additional research by Lovely Ann Cruz)