‘PH To Pursue Pleadings Vs. China’

There is no turning back for the Philippines’ filing Sunday of a written pleading against China’s claims over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), the Palace said on Saturday.

“In all of this, the Philippines will always do what is right. The government will always do what is right for our country and for our countrymen,” Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said .

Asked if the Philippines is ready to push for the arbitration even without the support of its neighbors, Valte said the Philippine government is determined to fight for what is right and fair.

The country is also inspired by the support it has been getting from the international community, the Palace official said.

“It’s apparent from all the support that we’re getting from the international community for our chosen track na kailangan ito under international law and for a peaceful resolution of the dispute,” she said.

The Philippines is also prepared for whatever sanction that China will impose.

The Philippines is required to submit the written pleading through e-mails and courier deliveries, which should come with soft copies in storage devices, Valte said.