Kalayaan Vice Mayor to Personally Deliver Resolution Condemning Senator's KIG Surrender Remarks
In a decisive move to uphold national sovereignty, Kalayaan Vice Mayor Maurice Philip Albayda has announced plans to travel to Metro Manila next week. His mission is to personally submit a formal resolution that strongly condemns and demands the retraction of Senator Rodante Marcoleta's controversial statement urging the surrender of the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG).
Unanimous Approval by Local Council
During an exclusive interview with Bombo Radyo, Vice Mayor Albayda confirmed that the resolution was approved unanimously by all members of the Sangguniang Bayan ng Kalayaan. He emphasized that this action aims to preserve the dignity and integrity of their municipality, which is directly impacted by such remarks.
The local official explained that the resolution will be submitted not only to the Commission on Appointments (CA) but also to the office of Senate President Vicente Tito Sotto III. This dual submission underscores the seriousness with which the Kalayaan local government views the issue, seeking accountability at the highest levels of Philippine governance.
Background on the Controversial Statement
The controversy stems from a hearing at the Commission on Appointments in the Senate on February 4, where Senator Marcoleta made the contentious suggestion to surrender the KIG. He argued that the area is not covered by the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), a claim that has sparked widespread criticism.
In response, Vice Mayor Albayda firmly rebutted this assertion during the Bombo Radyo interview. He insisted that the exclusive economic zone and territorial integrity are separate matters, clarifying that the EEZ pertains to maritime rights, while the Kalayaan Island Group is fundamentally about territorial sovereignty.
Reaffirming Territorial Claims
The Kalayaan local government has reinforced its position by citing a United Nations declaration, which recognizes that occupation establishes ownership or claimant status. This legal backing strengthens their argument against any suggestions of surrendering the islands.
This resolution highlights the ongoing tensions in Philippine territorial disputes and the local government's proactive stance in defending national interests. The upcoming submission is expected to draw significant attention from political observers and the public alike.
