Palace says decisions on Recto Bank case must not be based on ”conjecture”

June 19, 2019

Malacanang on Wednesday said government's policy and action cannot be based on “conjecture, speculation or even emotion” after Senator Panfilo Lacson Jr recommended on invoking the Mutual Defense Treaty ( MDT) with the United States.

“We thank the good Senator for his opinion. The government policy and action cannot be based on conjecture, speculation or even emotion,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

Panelo said before the Philippines can invoke the MDT, there must first be an act of aggression against the country.

“The facts have yet to be established pointing to the incident as an act of aggression by the Chinese government. Moreover, the MDT itself recognizes the primary use of peaceful means in resolving international disputes,” he said.

“Thus, invoking the strong medicine of the MDT at this time when facts about the maritime incident in our exclusive economic zone have not yet been firmly established would not only be imprudent, it would be irresponsible as well,” he added.

Panelo said President Rodrigo Duterte is thinking, cautious, and responsible.

“The interest of the nation is foremost in his mind when he undertakes an official act vis-à-vis other countries. While others may have the luxury of armchair expertise or backseat driving, the President, as Chief Executive, can ill afford to act on fragmented or incomplete information,” he said.

Panelo said while they understand the emotional outcry of our citizens, they call on everyone to be circumspect.

“There will be a time to demand for reparation once the facts have been established. Our immediate priority is looking out for the welfare of the affected 22 fishermen and for the safety of the entire Filipino fishing community, and even for the security of all our countrymen,” said Panelo.

“The nation can rest assured the President and the entire government shall be relentless in its pursuit of justice for our 22 fishermen and that strong action shall be made if and when the same is warranted,” he added.  Ella Dionisio/DMS