Tarriela responds to Marcoleta on WPS after the lawmaker criticized his use of the term “West Philippine Sea,” sparking a debate on its legitimacy.
In a social media post, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Jay Tarriela, addressed the remarks of Sagip party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta, who had called on the public not to be “foolish and ignorant” like Tarriela for allegedly misunderstanding global and maritime maps.
In a statement, Tarriela expressed disappointment that a congressman from the 19th Congress, which passed the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, would dismiss the term “West Philippine Sea” as a product of ignorance.
He emphasized that the term is widely embraced by Filipinos and symbolizes their rights and aspirations concerning marine resources within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Tarriela also pointed out that the term is used by military and coast guard personnel while performing their patriotic duties, often under dangerous conditions.
He asserted that the formal adoption of the term is not illegal under Philippine law and should not be disregarded, as it strengthens the nation’s connection to its EEZ.
Tarriela questioned how the international community could support the country’s use of WPS if Filipinos themselves oppose it.
He added that the majority of Filipinos recognize and use the term “West Philippine Sea” without issue, except for those who seem to create unnecessary controversy, such as senatorial candidate Marcoleta.
In closing, Tarriela challenged Marcoleta, asking if he truly believes in the EEZ, then why should naming it be prohibited and what alternative term should be used.
The exchange between the two officials stemmed from Marcoleta’s recent statement during a House of Representatives hearing, where he claimed that the “West Philippine Sea” does not exist and was merely an invention, an assertion that Tarriela had previously criticized.