In a revealing interview on state-run Radyo Pilipinas, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile criticized former President Rodrigo Duterte for failing to safeguard the Philippines’ interests in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Despite Duterte’s friendly relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Beijing, Enrile pointed out that the national interest in the WPS was not adequately addressed during Duterte’s term, leaving the issue unresolved and ongoing.
Enrile highlighted that while the Philippines has not lost control over the WPS, the country lacks the military capability to directly challenge China’s persistent incursions and harassment. He expressed hope that the Philippines would eventually be able to assert its sovereign rights over the WPS more effectively.
The legal counsel acknowledged the Philippines’ limited options, stating that without the capacity to confront China militarily, the country is currently unable to take decisive action. He suggested that the Philippines might need to seek assistance from the United States, leveraging the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the two nations.
Enrile also stressed the importance of enhancing security measures in northern Luzon to protect the Philippine Rise, a region rich in natural resources such as oil, gas, and minerals. He described the Philippine Rise as a potential energy source for the country and emphasized the need for security to safeguard this valuable asset, especially given China’s interest in the area.