Philippine Navy warships BRP Gregorio Del Pilar and BRP Jose Rizal, along with the USS Gabriel Gifford conduct tactical manoeuvres in the West Philippine Sea on Nov 23, 2023. - Armed Forces of the Philippines
MANILA: Senators are seeking an end to China’s continued bullying with the passage of the proposed Philippine maritime zones law.
Senate Bill No. 2492 was elevated to the Senate floor on Tuesday (Nov 28) by the chamber’s special committee on Philippine maritime and admiralty zones through its chairman, Senator Francis Tolentino.
Nine senators authored the measure, namely Tolentino, Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., JV Ejercito, Jinggoy Estrada, Risa Hontiveros, Loren Legarda, Joel Villanueva, Sherwin Gatchalian, Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, and Raffy Tulfo.
“It is now the time for Congress, particularly the Senate of the Philippines, to stand up for what is ours and take this fundamental step in ensuring that our national interests in Philippine waters are protected, by passing this law that will ‘govern the seas and resources of the Philippines for generations to come,’” Tolentino said in a speech when he endorsed the measure for plenary approval. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
