In light of the recent incident where a Chinese Coast Guard vessel repeatedly and intentionally rammed the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Teresa Magbanua, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are calling on Southeast Asian nations to unite with the Philippines in opposing China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea.
As OFWs around the world continue to contribute to their families and the nation, they are also keenly aware of the challenges facing their homeland.
The Japan-based Mabuhay Radio has been featuring videos of OFWs who fear that China’s continued harassment in the WPS could affect their livelihood and families.
The videos have gone viral and the hashtag #StandWithFilipinos has gained traction.
According to Commodore Jay Tarriela, the PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, there is a misconception within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that the Philippines is the only country being targeted by China. However, he pointed out that Malaysia and Vietnam have also faced similar harassment in contested waters.
“Even the Malaysian government and Vietnam are experiencing the same form of harassment and bullying from the Chinese Coast Guard,” Tarriela noted during an interview on Super Radyo dzBB.
OFWs share the frustration of many Filipinos back home, as Tarriela expressed disappointment over the seeming silence of Southeast Asian neighbors regarding the escalating tensions in the South China Sea, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
“It’s disheartening that the countries supporting our position in the West Philippine Sea are mostly from outside the region—like the United States, Japan, Australia, and the European Union,” Tarriela said. “It’s unusual that our own neighbors remain silent, and that is our ultimate concern,” he added.
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