PCG’s Tarriela to Marcoleta: WPS claim not up for debate

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela on Monday turned down Sen. Rodante Marcoleta’s invitation for a “friendly debate” before considering his earlier invitation to visit the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and Kalayaan Island Group (KIG).

“Before that, please inform Commodore Tarriela along with former Associate Justice Antonio Carpio. Who is the professor at UP? Let us have a friendly debate before going there,” Marcoleta had said, referring to University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea director Jay Batongbacal.

“That way, we can ensure it is done properly for the welfare of our country,” the senator added.

Tarriela earlier asked Marcoleta to join them in a Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) flight to the KIG after the senator suggested that the Philippines could “give up” the island group west of Palawan because some of its features lie beyond the country’s exclusive economic zone.

READ: Palace on Kalayaan islands: No part of PH will be given to foreign power

In response, the PCG official said in a Facebook post: “I would be happy to arrange a light-hearted discussion on less consequential matters—perhaps food preferences, current fashion trends, or other societal topics—but our nation’s territorial integrity and legal entitlements in the West Philippine Sea are not subjects for public debate.”

Matter of settled law

“I believe that Justice Antonio Carpio, Professor Jay Batongbacal, and any Filipino who fully understands our strong legal position will likewise refuse to participate in such a debate. For us, this is not a debatable proposition; it is a matter of settled law, national interest, and patriotic duty,” Tarriela added.

He said the basis of Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights in the WPS—firmly established by the 2016 Arbitral Award, the Philippine Constitution and domestic laws—is not open to negotiation or spectacle. 

“As a Senator of the Republic, Senator Marcoleta is duty-bound to uphold and defend these very rights. By framing them as debatable, he risks undermining the very oath he took to preserve true faith and allegiance to the Republic and to support its Constitution and laws,” Tarriela said.

“My invitation to join a Maritime Domain Awareness flight or sovereign patrol onboard PCG vessel for a full experience in KIG—together with your son, who idolizes you—remains open!” he added.

At a press briefing, Palace press officer Claire Castro said that while the senator’s statements could not be considered treason, those who continue to echo China’s propaganda should be ready for public backlash. —WITH A REPORT FROM DEXTER CABALZA