The group said both countries comprise “a real and serious threat to Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
In a statement, Pamalakaya Vice Chairperson Salvador France assailed the Chinese government “for violating the Philippine sovereignty and for claiming that almost 90 percent of the West Philippine Sea is China’s ‘indisputable sovereignty’ under their socalled 9-dash line theory.”
“This means the loss of 80 percent of Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ)’” he noted.
“China has no basis on their 9-dash line theory and no other countries but only China recognizes it. We condemn the Chinese government for their aggressive occupation of reefs and other rock formations within Philippines’ EEZ.” France said.
The fisherfolk group also asked the Chinese naval units to “stop harassing Filipino fishermen who are only trying to make a living in the West Philippine Sea”, as it cited the “water cannon incident” last April where a Chinese vessel used water cannon to drive away Filipino fishermen from Panatag Shoal.
At the same time, Pamalakaya also slammed the United States government “for meddling in the issue to justify and promote increased US military presence in the archipelago.” “The Philippines can stand on its own without the help of another giant who has more and bigger economic interest in the contested waters rather than upholding our national interest.” the group said.
For his part, France said “asking for the help of the United States is like choosing a rapist over the thief; it will only cause more trouble because neither of these two super powers will protect, but instead, are a big threat to our national sovereignty. This is our fight so we should stand on our own and be independent from any other pretentious help especially from the US.”
The Independence Day protest which has the theme “Hands off the Philippines” will be held in front of the Chinese Embassy in Makati City starting 9 a.m., followed by a caravan to the US Embassy on Roxas Boulevard from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
