Tarriela says defending China in WPS claims is considered treason

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela on Wednesday accused lawmakers and officials who defend China’s maritime claims of committing acts he described as treasonous.

In a phone interview with reporters, Tarriela said those who undermine the Philippines’ position in the West Philippine Sea are betraying the nation.

“If you are defending the position of the People’s Republic of China, if you are advancing their interests, and at some point questioning our own position, I don’t think this is a patriotic service to the Filipino people,” he said. “This is actually treasonous. You are considered a traitor already.”

Tarriela cited the 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling that favored the Philippines and invalidated China’s so-called nine-dash-line claims as proof that the country’s maritime rights have already been legally affirmed.

He also referenced the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, which codifies the nation’s territorial waters, saying there is “no need for explanations” when the law already protects Philippine interests.

Earlier this week, Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and Rodante Marcoleta clashed in the Senate over the West Philippine Sea, with the debate centering on the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) under the arbitral ruling.

Marcoleta questioned the ruling’s legal clarity, saying it lacked precise coordinates for the EEZ and urging caution in public statements, including references to China’s assistance in maritime incidents near Scarborough Shoal. Pangilinan countered that Philippine laws and the arbitral award clearly affirm the country’s maritime rights and invalidate China’s nine-dash-line claims.

READ: China summons PH envoy in Beijing over Tarriela’s remarks

Tarriela said the PCG has consistently documented Chinese incursions through videos and photographs showing dangerous maneuvers, intentional ramming, use of water cannons, large-scale illegal reclamation, and the deployment of Chinese maritime militia.

“All of these incidents that we have publicized over the years are supported by photos and videos,” he said.

He also addressed allegations of smear campaigns or disinformation by the PCG, stressing that videos posted online are original and unedited, and are meant to inform the international community rather than escalate tensions with China.

“Personally, as a spokesperson, I don’t think we are the ones escalating tensions or engaging in a verbal tussle with the Chinese embassy,” Tarriela said.

Asked whether the PCG would continue responding to counterclaims from Beijing, he said, “This is not about escalating tensions or provoking anyone. We are simply countering falsehoods and telling the international community what is really happening and who is violating international law.”

Tarriela added that Chinese diplomats operating in the Philippines should show sincerity and act responsibly in responding to past statements and actions.

His remarks echoed positions previously raised by Pangilinan, former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, and other legal experts, who have consistently maintained that the Philippines’ territorial claims are firmly backed by international law and must be defended against external pressure. /jpv