Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima stated that China must align its actions in the West Philippine Sea with its stated desire for good relations and regional stability.
Speaking ahead of the Philippines’ hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, the senior deputy minority leader emphasized that lasting peace requires dialogue partners to uphold international law and honor their commitments.
“China must walk the talk,” said the former senator.
De Lima asserted that if Beijing aims to be viewed as a sincere partner in regional peace, it must address ongoing disputes in the West Philippine Sea and halt actions that negatively impact Filipino fishermen, as well as personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard and Navy. She further questioned whether China’s maritime activities genuinely reflect its commitment to friendship and cooperation.
Her remarks arrive as Manila prepares to host the 49th ASEAN Summit from November 16 to 18, an event drawing intense scrutiny amid persistent maritime tensions between the Philippines and China.
As a major regional dialogue partner, China regularly participates in various ASEAN-led mechanisms, including the ASEAN-China Summit, ASEAN Plus Three, East Asia Summit, and the ASEAN Regional Forum.