A new ‘route’ to solving PH-China disputes

I have to thank Prof. Clarita R. Carlos for treating us to a different “food taste.” Indeed, how the rigors of impeachment proceedings made us crave for a different flavor. I found it in her June 3 commentary (“Low-politics route to cooperation in South China Sea”).

Detailing the situation between China and the Philippines, she made it clear to me that the Chinese and Filipinos have many beneficial things in common. For example, both are in search of a cancer cure.

Of similar significance is the study of the waters—the very same waters under the same skies, where coral formations, sea plants and fish species are all part of one ecological whole. One ecological whole! Can’t we allow each other to enjoy the gifts of the sea? Not in the manner of “’you there, me here.’’ For we are one. In Zen we call it “Otherness.”

Professor Carlos has my 100-percent “approval” in her solution—the low-politics route to cooperation. But my question is, what office in our government, aside from the Department of Foreign Affairs, should suggest to China the way of cooperation?

Are the Chinese and Filipinos possessed with the full vigor to maintain diplomacy, at all costs, paving the way for unconditional human possibilities?

Kudos, Professor Carlos!

—HONORATA R. VICENCIO,

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