(Eagle News)–Senators on Thursday, June 13, condemned the collision at Recto Bank that saw a Filipino boat sink, and the Chinese vessel that rammed it leaving behind the 22 Filipino fishermen.
Senator Risa Hontiveros called on President Rodrigo Duterte to “immediately order the recall” of the Philippine ambassador and consuls pending China’s action on the incident.
According to Hontiveros, the Duterte administration should enforce the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s ruling on the West Philippine Sea.
For Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, the ramming of the Filipino boat and the act of abandonment are a violation of the United Nations Convention on the Laws of the Sea.
Senator Grace Poe urged the Philippine government to file a diplomatic protest, and China to file charges against the crew members of the Chinese vessel.
“Akalain mo, binangga na nga, iniwan pa dun para mamatay. Hindi po excuse na sabihin malakas ang China at mahina tayo. Kung nginudngod mukha na mukha mo sa lupa, hindi ba mas kahiya hiya sa inyong integridad na hindi lumaban?” she said.
Senator Antonio Trillanes IV for his part urged the Philippines to file a protest at the International Maritime Organization.
“This is a very alarming situation that could further escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea,” he said. Meanne Corvera