What’s behind the display of Chinese flag in Boracay?

What will be your reaction if you are a Filipino on vacation in Boracay and all of a sudden you see China’s flag?

At least two photos went viral on social media recently after a Chinese tourist displayed the Chinese flag in Boracay. Natividad Bernardino, chief of the Boracay Inter-Agency Rehabilitation Management Group, said they have yet to determine the motive behind the act, and that it is a “different story” if there was malicious intent.

We all know that China wants to take control of some of the islands, reefs and other features in the West Philippine Sea because of their vast economic resources and strategic location. It reportedly wants to secure methane hydrate in the area, and has even built military installations on seized islands.

It is for these reasons that we cannot avoid feeling irritated when reports like the display of a Chinese flag in Boracay surface. We hope China would not threaten the peace and stability in our own territory, or disrupt other countries from the exercise of their sovereign rights.

JACK JAMES MANTO, [email protected]