House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday underscored the importance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visits to Germany and Czech Republic to advance the Philippine national interest amid growing tension in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In his scheduled meeting with the leaders of the two countries, President Marcos is expected, among others, to emphasize the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to strengthening partnerships with like-minded countries in promoting rules-based international order.

The President is also expected to seek stronger bilateral relations with Germany and Czech Republic and expand economic cooperation for more mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities.

“These visits would serve to bolster bilateral relations, enhance economic cooperation, and reinforce the Philippines’ standing in the international community. Amidst complex geopolitical challenges, fostering strong alliances with nations sharing similar values is imperative for safeguarding our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez said that in the face of increasing assertiveness in the West Philippine Sea, adherence to international law is crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

The House leader is part of the President’s official delegation for his working visit to Germany and state visit to Czech Republic.

On March 5, at least four Filipinos sustained minor injuries after two China Coast Guard vessels ships used water cannons against Unaizah Mae 4, a smaller vessel contracted by the Philippine military for a resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.

Prior to this incident, a China Coast Guard vessel collided with the BRP Sindangan, causing “superficial structural damage.”

Romualdez said the chamber fully supports the diplomatic initiatives of President Marcos to advance the country’s national interest on the global stage.

“We, at the House of Representatives, stand solidly behind President Marcos in his pursuit of diplomatic solutions to the West Philippine Sea dispute anchored on the respect for international law and the principles of maritime freedom,” he said.

A Joint Declaration of Intent on Strengthening Maritime Cooperation would be sealed between the Philippines and Germany during President Marcos’ visit to Berlin.

The Czech Republic and Germany were among 16 European nations that issued a joint statement in July 2023 supporting the Philippines in its fight for sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea in time with the commemoration of the 2016 Arbitral Ruling issued by The Hague that invalidated China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea.

During her visit to the Philippines in January last year, Germany’s foreign minister Annalena Baerbock criticized the Chinese coastguard’s activities in the South China Sea, including its use of lasers and water cannons, saying those actions of China were causing concern in Europe.

The WPS issue was also among the issues that President Marcos discussed with Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala when the latter visited the Philippines on April 17, 2023 to launch his 10-day sojourn around Asia.

In October of the same year, the Czech Republic offered to the Philippines its vessels suitable for use in securing the country’s territorial waters. (PNA)