“(China’s) reckless maneuver is just one of many attempts by China to assert its control over waters that are rightfully ours”
“LAHAT ng gubat, may ahas (All jungles have snakes).”
In this Year of the Snake, we are reminded of the deceptive, treacherous, and dangerous in the political jungle, particularly among our senatorial candidates.
Some politicians are like snakes in the grass, betraying our country and our people by being silent in the face of worsening Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, and most recently in our exclusive economic zone at the Panatag Shoal (Scarborough Shoal).
Some make absurd “jetski” promises and remarks like “There is nothing as (sic) West Philippine Sea,” echoing China’s propaganda strategy of mal-information.
Former Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has warned us about “Manchurian candidates”—politicians allegedly under the influence of foreign powers, particularly China. We should not dismiss his warning lightly.
Beijing has grown bolder. A Chinese helicopter recently endangered the lives of Philippine crew members, coming dangerously close to a government aircraft conducting routine operations over Scarborough Reef.
This reckless maneuver is just one of many attempts by China to assert its control over waters that are rightfully ours.
This and other previous actions are more than just provocations—they are a direct challenge to our sovereignty.
But worse than some politicians’ silence and parroting of Beijing’s defeatist narrative are allegations that some of them may even be receiving campaign funds from China.
Comelec should look into this, as these charges, if proven true, compromise their and every Filipino citizen’s duty to our nation’s interests.
Our people know where our nation’s interest lie. A recent poll reveals that 73 percent of Filipinos would not vote for candidates who appear to support China.
This survey result clearly reflects our collective desire to protect our nation’s territorial integrity and uphold our 2016 arbitral victory that dismissed China’s expansive claims in the bigger South China Sea.
Any candidate who disregards this ruling—and fails to take a strong stance against Chinese aggression—cannot be trusted to lead us into a future of peace and prosperity.
We are at a crossroads. The Philippines’ future hinges on the leaders we choose to represent us. Electing pro-China candidates, or those who refuse to stand up for our rights, is like inviting a snake into our midst—a dangerous, silent betrayal that could cost us our sovereignty and security.
This coming election, let’s choose leaders who will defend our nation with courage and integrity. Let’s vote for those who will stand firm against Chinese aggression, uphold our territorial rights, and prioritize the safety and well-being of every Filipino. Let’s ensure that no snake slithers into power—no matter how friendly they appear.
Walang malasakit ang ahas, itaga mo sa bato.
Is Chiz lawyering for Sara?
I was curious about the meaning of the word “escudo” which I vaguely remember refers to the currency of Portugal and Chile. Google also refers to “escudo” as a “shield” and therefore an “escudero” is one who acts as a shield.
That brings me to the current controversy over the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
And my question is this: Is Chiz shielding Sara from an early start of her trial for betrayal of public trust and corruption with his insistence on delaying it first until June 2 and later even until the last week of July or after the President’s annual State of the Nation Address or SONA?
And by delaying the impeachment trial of Sara Duterte by six months—and perhaps giving her enough breathing space or elbow room to think of legal and other maneuvers to fend off her removal from office—we can’t help but entertain the idea that maybe—just maybe—Chiz could be lawyering for Sara.
If that’s the case, can we trust Chiz to steer the impeachment trial to an early and credible conclusion?
If not, I’m afraid he is going to show his true colors in due time and demonstrate in no uncertain terms that he is no whiz in upholding the rule of law and the delivery of swift justice in this country.
Or this is part and parcel of a game plan or political calculus for 2028 and beyond that Chiz prefers to keep close to his chest?
(Email: ernhil@yahoo.com)