Hontiveros urges Baguio youth to engage in West Philippine Sea dispute

April, 21, 2024 | By Vanya Danyella Barachita

Senator Risa Hontiveros answers a student's question on West Philippine Sea during a symposium organized by AKMA UP on April 19, 2024. (The Companion/V.D. Barachita)

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Senator Risa Hontiveros encouraged students during a symposium in Baguio to stand firm in the ongoing fight for the West Philippine Sea against China.

The symposium entitled “Layag ng Paglaya” was organized by Alternatibong Katipunan ng Mag-aaral sa UP (AKMA UP) and held at the University of the Cordilleras on Friday, April 19.

In her keynote speech, Hontiveros emphasized the importance of youth participation in the fight for the West Philippine Sea as it continues in the future.

"Hindi ito malulutas ng kasalukuyang mga henerasyon lamang. Every generation, your generation will need to keep protecting our national interest. Keep pushing back against bullies and keep speaking truth to power,” she said.

On March 5, the National Security Council (NSC) reported that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) used water cannons to attack a Philippine supply boat. The vessel was on its way to resupply troops at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.

“Kahit saang espasyo talaga tayo gumagalaw ngayon, may bantang dala ang Tsina sa ating pambansang seguridad. Kaya naman, ibang klase rin ang pagkairita ko nung nabalitaan natin itong tawag na ‘gentleman’s agreement’ ‘di umano ni dating Pangulong Duterte at ng Tsina,” she added. 

In an interview with Politiko on March 27, former Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque revealed that former President Rodrigo Duterte formed a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ with China during his term. The agreement included limiting resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre to prevent further tension from rising.

However, the former president denied the allegation in a press conference in Davao on April 11. 

“Mga Isko at mga Iska, mga estudyante ng iba pang mga ginagalang na unibersidad dito sa lungsod ng Baguio, you must carry on this fight. Tumindig, tumayo. Tuloy ang laban,” she said as she ended her speech.

More than 200 students and faculty members from the University of the Philippines Baguio, Saint Louis University, University of the Cordilleras, University of Baguio, and Benguet State University attended the symposium.