Gatchalian backs gov’t efforts to push code of conduct in South China Sea

Sherwin Gatchalian backs gov’t efforts to push code of conduct in South China Sea (Photo: Senator Win Gatchalian/ Facebook)

MANILA—Sen. Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian on Monday expressed support for efforts of the government to complete the Code of Conduct (CoC) in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) and use the Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN to do so.

“The Philippines must make the most of this opportunity, as the leader of ASEAN…to craft a just and lasting peace for the benefit of the 600 million people who call Southeast Asia home,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

Gatchalian, who said that disputes in South China Sea have held the region back from achieving its true potential, said the country’s position as ASEAN chair can steer the regional bloc toward completion of the CoC.

The neophyte senator, who serves as chair of the Senate committees on energy and economic affairs, was also optimistic that the final CoC would fast-track the amicable resolution of the various disputes between member-states.

This, he said, would be the key to usher renewed economic growth and social progress within the region.

“The theme of ASEAN 2017, ‘Partnering for Change: Engaging the World’, reflects a commitment to achieving progress within the region through diplomacy, cooperation, and mutual respect,” Gatchalian said.

“The best way to give life to this theme would be to act as a catalyst for real change in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.

The CoC is a legally-binding document which would govern the settlement of disputes between ASEAN member-states and China concerning their respective claims in the hotly-contested waters to the west of the Philippines.

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. earlier said that the CoC may be finally completed by the middle of the year.