The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Friday it will continue to defend Philippine sovereignty and rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) through firm yet professional diplomacy, unaffected by public criticism, without resorting to “performative rhetoric.”
In a press briefing, newly appointed maritime spokesperson Rogelio Villanueva emphasized that the Department will follow the President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive as the main architect of Philippine foreign policy.
He added that the DFA will ‘not allow ourselves to be sidetracked by the jeers of some casual commentators, non-practitioners, and self-styled experts.’
“While performative rhetoric is a reality in modern public discourse, the DFA has long ago resolved to conduct our work with the national interest as the sole consideration, not for fanfare, not for followers, and certainly not for likes, but solely for the national interest and welfare of the Filipino people,” Villanueva said.
The maritime expert and diplomat highlighted that the Philippines’ efforts should be seen in the context of achieving strategic objectives.
He mentioned that although defense capabilities, messaging, and transparency are important, they are most effective when integrated with other policy tools, with diplomacy remaining central to supporting the country’s maritime goals.
Earlier, retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio expressed disagreement with the DFA’s preference for closed-door diplomacy regarding tensions in the WPS, arguing that transparency is vital for maintaining sustained international pressure on China.
Carpio cautioned that relying too heavily on closed-door negotiations could weaken broader international backing.
The maritime spokesperson also said the DFA will keep channels of bilateral and regional engagement open, reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to manage maritime issues peacefully despite what he described as ‘illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive activities’ by China.
He confirmed that the Department will continue to issue protests and make serious representations to the Chinese Embassy when necessary.
“We will consistently assert to them and the entire world the Philippines’ sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea. The Filipino public can continue to count on the DFA to be a credible and authoritative voice for the Philippines’ positions and interests,” Villanueva said.
His appointment comes in light of recent public exchanges between Chinese diplomats and various Philippine legislators, ensuring a unified government response to matters related to the WPS.
On Thursday, the Chinese Embassy in Manila said it supports open and constructive dialogue with the Philippines and encouraged the DFA to help manage differences and strengthen bilateral relations amid recent public exchanges.
This was in response to Villanueva’s call to the embassy to maintain constructive discussions despite disagreements, emphasizing the importance of calm, professional exchanges.
