Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has welcomed Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan’s proposal for dialogue, describing it as a positive step toward easing recent tensions between Filipino officials and the Chinese Embassy in Manila.
In a radio interview on Saturday, Lacson expressed optimism over the ambassador’s remarks encouraging discussions on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue.
“(It’s a) pleasant surprise na nagsabi ‘yung ambassador ng China sa Pilipinas na ‘Let’s talk.’ That’s a breath of fresh air. I think that’s a good opening para ‘yun na ‘yung tahakin namin,” Lacson said in a radio interview on Saturday.
The Chinese envoy earlier underscored Beijing’s preference for peaceful engagement instead of confrontation.
“Nobody wants to resort to force. Nobody wants to fight with each other. That hurt our relationship for a long time. That is why China’s side always advocates dialogue. Let’s sit down. Let’s talk. Let’s find ways to manage differences.”
Lacson said he plans to consult Senate President Vicente Sotto III on the possibility of arranging a meeting that could include both majority and minority senators.
The move follows heated exchanges sparked by a Senate resolution censuring Beijing’s diplomatic post.
“Kung maia-arrange ‘yong schedule, mas mabuti. Kaya isasangguni ko ‘yan kay Senate President… Magandang opening ‘yun para mapag-usapan nang mas mahinahon at mas professional, mas diplomatic ‘yung atmosphere,” he added.
While acknowledging that territorial disagreements may persist, Lacson stressed the importance of maintaining civility in discussions.
“Hindi man magkasundo sa kung anong teritoryo ang kanila at ‘yung sa atin, kung sino man nagba-violate, hindi man magkasundo doon, at least magkasundo man lang sa pamamaraan ng discourse.”
He emphasized that even if sovereignty issues remain unresolved, fostering respectful and diplomatic dialogue could help manage differences and prevent further strain in bilateral relations.