The Senate will convene an all-senators’ caucus on Monday, February 23, to set guidelines for possible dialogue with the Chinese Embassy as tensions continue in the West Philippine Sea.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said Saturday that the meeting aims to establish clear communication parameters before any formal engagement with Chinese officials.
He described reports that the Chinese ambassador is open to talks as a “breath of fresh air” amid recent heated exchanges.
“So that’s a good opening. And I think, it’s not only my initiative, but the initiative of the new Foreign Relations Committee Chairman, Senator Erwin Tulfo, na mag-open kami ng dialogue,” Lacson said.
Lacson clarified that the caucus will not focus on debating territorial claims over the Kalayaan Island Group or the West Philippine Sea, but rather on preventing further diplomatic strain.
“Not necessarily to argue about the Kalayan Island Group or the West Philippine Sea, but at least mag-establish kami ng parameters on how to communicate with each other para hindi tayo nagkakasakitan,” he added.
The planned meeting comes after sharp exchanges between senators and the Chinese Embassy, including remarks made by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Rodante Marcoleta regarding the Kalayaan Island Group.
Lacson said all senators, including Marcoleta, are invited to attend the caucus, which seeks to clarify communication channels and help ease diplomatic tensions.