Hontiveros Flies to Pag-asa Island, Calls for ‘Continuous Pushback’ Against China in the West Philippine Sea
Senator Risa Hontiveros made a bold trip to Thitu Island — known as Pag-asa — in the disputed Spratly chain on Saturday, calling for ‘continuous diplomatic and political pushback’ against China’s aggressive claims in the West Philippine Sea.
The island, about 450 kilometers west of Palawan, is home to around 400 Filipinos — mostly fishermen and their families — whom China accuses of living there illegally. An AFP journalist on a second plane spotted Chinese navy and coast guard vessels patrolling near the island during the visit.
Hontiveros, an outspoken China critic, said she believed Filipinos were not ready to give up ‘any portion of the West Philippine Sea.’ She called for strengthening defence relationships with like-minded nations, including expanding joint patrols beyond the existing treaty with the United States.
In a pointed political jab, Hontiveros warned that Vice President Sara Duterte — who recently announced her 2028 presidential bid — would likely adopt a China-friendly approach similar to her father’s. She also raised concerns about a potential US-China conflict over Taiwan, noting the Philippines’ Batanes chain lies very close to the island.
The senator brought essential goods and medical services for Pag-asa’s residents, and noted wryly that the symbols on her phone changed to Chinese characters before landing. Para sa Pilipinas, this kind of presence matters — showing the flag, literally and figuratively.
Source: Channel News Asia
