LAWMAKERS on Wednesday shrugged off China’s opposition to the proposed Philippine Maritime Zone Act, emphasizing their commitment to advancing national interests despite external pressure.

“This is our country, this is what we need, and we are going to do it for our country and not for China,” House Deputy Majority Leader and Mandaluyong City Rep. Neptali “Boyet” Gonzales II told a press conference when asked about his response to China’s objection to the crucial maritime legislation.

The proposed Philippine Maritime Act, which aims to define the country’s archipelagic boundaries, internal waters, and exclusive economic zones, was passed by the House of Representatives in May 2023, while the Senate version received approval last February 26.

China has vehemently opposed the bill, alleging that it infringes upon its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

But Gonzales said the Philippines will have to pursue its own agenda, irrespective of China’s stance.

“Hindi naman sila boboto rito. I’m just joking, but ‘yun ang kailangan natin eh. So regardless of their position, bakit naman we will be influenced by their position on what we need and what we should do?” Gonzales said.

The House leader also criticized China’s preference for bilateral talks, pointing out the inherent power imbalance that accompanies such negotiation. Instead, he advocated for a multilateral approach as a more equitable alternative.

“‘Yan palagi ang gusto ng China, tayong dalawa lang ang mag-usap. Alam niyo naman in a diplomatic table, kung dalawa lang kayong nag-uusap, may pinag-uusapan kayo, ay isa lang naman ang rule dyan, kung sino ang may armas ‘yun ang mananalo. Kaya ayaw natin iyon eh, kaya ang gusto natin multilateral eh,” Gonzales explained.

Gonzales’ sentiments were echoed by Representatives Rodge Gutierrez of 1-RIDER Party-list, Wilfrido Mark Enverga of Quezon’s 1st District, and Amparo Maria Zamora of Taguig City’s 2nd District.

“At the end of the day we, will be legislating for our people as representatives of the people and what we can say is that we will definitely not give up this right,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez also emphasized the legality of the proposed law, citing both domestic and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

He rebuffed claims that the legislative measure would contravene international law, asserting its alignment with UNCLOS provisions.

Enverga seconded Gonzales’ stance on bilateral talks with China, noting that they have been attempted previously without success.

“I think we’ve explored that before and we know the predicament of doing the same thing. So iyong water cannon is still there, iyong mga paghaharang, pagbabangga. I think it’s time for us to really address this issue,” Enverga said.

For her part, Zamora expressed skepticism toward China’s diplomatic intentions, citing recent aggressive actions.

“Makikinig pa ba tayo sa kanila? Dati ginigitgit lang, kahapon binangga na binomba pa ng tubig,” Zamora said, referring to China’s assertive behavior in the West Philippine Sea.

Zamora emphasized the importance of standing firm against external pressures and protecting Philippine interests.

“China is known for their wolf warrior diplomacy, so talaga naman kahit anong sabihin nila hindi naman sila makikipag-usap ng maayos,” Zamora pointed out.

“So dapat para sa atin, tulad ng sinabi ng mga kasamahan ko, eh ipaglaban lang natin iyong atin talaga,” she added.