Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has criticized SAGIP Party-list Representative Paolo Henry Marcoleta for remarks suggesting that a Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson and certain senators be sent to the frontlines if war breaks out with China.
Lacson said the statement amounted to an ad hominem attack and was “uncalled for.”
“Suggesting to use the PCG spokesman and some senators as cannon fodder if China declares war against the Philippines is uncalled for. He should visit Pag-asa Island in the KIG (Kalayaan Island Group) and see for himself the functioning local government there,” Lacson wrote on social media.
The younger Marcoleta, son of Senate Deputy Minority Leader Rodante Marcoleta, made the controversial remark on Friday, accusing officials of endangering the country.
“Kung sakaling giyerahin tayo ng Tsina, ihelera niyo sa harap ng bakbakan itong spox ng coastguard at yun mayayabang na Senador. Sila ang unang lumusob. O kaya ibala niyo sa kanyon. Tignan natin ang tapang nila,” he said.
His comments were reportedly aimed at Commodore Jay Tarriela, Coast Guard spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, and senators who supported a resolution censuring the Chinese Embassy for criticizing Philippine officials.
Rodante Marcoleta, who did not sign the resolution, earlier drew backlash for suggesting the Philippines consider “giving up” the Kalayaan Island Group.
Netizens have since tagged him and other senators as “Tsina-tors,” a label used against officials perceived to favor China’s interests.