The head of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs has openly denounced China’s unfounded claims to control over Palawan, which have been propagated via Chinese social media videos. In a statement on March 4, Rep. Rachel Arenas of Pangasinan’s 3rd district staunchly defended the Philippines’ full sovereignty over the island province, asserting it as an undeniable reality.
Arenas labeled China’s assertions as blatant propaganda and an affront to the nation’s sovereignty. She underscored that Palawan has always been, and will remain, a central part of the Philippines, affirming it as a well-established fact.
She further declared that these social media claims are not only outrightly false but historically wrong and in direct breach of international law.
Arenas, a fervent proponent of Philippine sovereignty, has vigorously led legislative efforts focused on strengthening the country’s maritime security and territorial sovereignty. She is a prominent backer of the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law and the Maritime Zones Law, which clearly define the extent of the Philippines’ maritime authority.
In a call to action, the distinguished lawmaker urged relevant government bodies to craft updated maps that align with Philippine law, accurately charting and denoting the nation’s maritime area, political borders, and other vital aspects within its territory.
Arenas stressed the importance of this step in challenging China’s overreaching and unlawful claims on Philippine land.