Returning to a supposed Duterte-era deal to preserve peace in the Spratly Islands would be a pragmatic step for the Philippines amid increased militarisation. China should opt for economic investment instead of military assertiveness which only serves to harden negative public opinion among Filipinos.
Manila must know there is a ‘price to pay’ if it seeks second arbitration over Beijing’s claims, founding president of National Institute for South China Sea Studies tells symposium on 2016 ruling.
Calling Beijing’s claim ‘propaganda’, Defence Secretary Teodoro said Manila would never enter into any pact that would compromise its claims in the waterway.