Lighting the way to sovereignty: A call for unity in the West Philippine Sea

On the fateful evening of Dec. 2, as the BRP Datu Tamblot and its crew braved the calm waters near Hasa-Hasa Shoal, they were met with an unexpected guest—a high-intensity laser beam from an unidentified Chinese vessel. As the green beam pierced the darkness, one could almost imagine it as an unorthodox holiday greeting, albeit one that could potentially blind our sailors.

Incidents like these remind us of the challenges faced by our courageous men and women guarding the waters of the West Philippine Sea. Hasa-Hasa Shoal, a part of our exclusive economic zone (EEZ), isn’t just a spot on the map—it’s a resource-rich area teeming with marine life, a haven for Filipino fishers, and a symbol of our national identity.

While the laser incident might sound like a scene from a sci-fi movie, it’s a stark reminder of the reality we face: a need to assert our sovereign rights without losing sight of diplomacy and peace. Let us not be intimidated by these bright displays; instead, let them serve as a spotlight on the pressing need for unity—both domestically and internationally.

The Philippines has always been a nation that values dialogue, justice, and mutual respect. We have demonstrated our commitment to these principles through the legal and diplomatic avenues we’ve pursued, most notably the 2016 arbitral ruling that affirmed our rights in the West Philippine Sea.

Yet, these rights are not just about us. They resonate with all nations that believe in the rule of law and the importance of maintaining peace and stability in international waters. Our maritime zones are part of a larger network that supports global trade, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Protecting these waters is a shared responsibility.

We call on our friends in the international community to shine a light of their own on this issue. This is not merely a bilateral matter between the Philippines and China; it’s a question of respecting international law and ensuring that no nation can claim what isn’t theirs through coercion or force.

From Asean partners to the broader global family, we urge you to amplify your voices. Support initiatives that uphold peace and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos). Stand with us in asserting that the future of these waters lies in sustainable development, not conflict.

To our fellow Filipinos, let this serve as a rallying cry—not to war, but to unwavering vigilance and unity. Every fisher who sails these waters, every soldier who guards our outposts, and every citizen who supports our claim, strengthens our stance. Together, we are a nation that believes in fairness, peace, and sovereignty.

And to the unidentified vessel that brought a light show to Hasa-Hasa Shoal, let this be our message: the Philippines does not stand in darkness. We are guided by the light of our laws, our allies, and our indomitable spirit.

So, let us steer forward, navigating these contested waters with confidence. The beam of justice and unity will always shine brighter than any laser.

Shermaine Anacleto,

[email protected]