Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said Thursday that if elected president, he would be "fearless in fighting for what is ours" while upholding the Philippines' victory against China before an international court.
Moreno gave the assurance to fishermen in Botolan, Zambales, who have for years been displaced by the Chinese Coast Guard from rich fishing grounds that are within the country's Exclusive Economic Zone or EEZ.
“We will be fearless in fighting for what is ours. We will continue to insist the Hague Ruling. But at the same time as being fearless, we are going to be fair with our discussion and management of the situation on both sides,” he said.
“We will be faithful to our farmers and fisherfolks. Ang mga mangingisda, dapat makapangisda sa loob ng ating teritoryo sa dagat. At iyon ang magaganap: undeterred, peaceful, and productive fishing opportunities under our rules,” said Moreno.
Moreno said he would focus on defending territory and strenghtening the Mutual Defense Treaty and Visiting Forces Agreement with the U.S.
“Bibili tayo ng tingga? Babarilin natin ang kapwa nating Pilipino? I’ll just invest it in the body of water (and) protecting the future of our country, na 'wag nang mabawasan 'yung natitira pa."
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