The conflicting stances of President Rodrigo Duterte on foreign relations led Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV into moving the Senate to run an inquiry into the definite direction the President wants to adhere to regarding the country’s foreign policy.
Aquino filed Senate Resolution Number 158 to compel the government into clearing up its position in order to protect the national interest of the country.
“Given the number of conflicting statements coming from the President and senior government officials, there is a need to clarify government’s position and engagement with its neighbors and allies, and to ensure the Filipino public that we are pursuing a clear and coherent foreign policy that is most beneficial to the country,” Aquino said.
This frustration has been brought upon by numerous instances wherein Duterte’s government had contradicting actions on foreign matters. First and foremost is the President’s obvious neglect on the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s decision on issues regarding the West Philippine Sea and Spratly islands which had been favorable for our country. Contrastingly, he chose to mend Manila’s relationship with Beijing and set aside the ruling in order to secure the ongoing talks he has with China. These talks are possibly related to his plan of purchasing equipment from China and Russia.
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Secondly, Duterte continues to try and sever ties with the US by intentionally skipping the ASEAN-US Summit and even calling out US President Barack Obama himself on his alleged ‘hypocrisy’ on killings, using profanities in his own speech. He would later express regret over this statement and admit to needing the US’ help on issues surrounding the disputed region.
Last but not the least, the government’s inconsistencies regarding the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) allowing US military troops to conduct training exercises in the country has been a cause of alarm as well. According to the Supreme Court ruling in January 2016, EDCA is constitutional.
“Our relations with members of the international community have bearing on our ability to protect our territory and environment, develop our economy, and promote the welfare and well-being of our citizens,” Aquino had reasoned, in support to his view that it is “integral” for the development of the country to maintain a distinct foreign policy.
With this resolution, let us hope the government comes up with a diplomatic and definite strategy in maintaining the country’s international relations.
Source: (rappler.com)
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