Asean must unite to stop bullying

Many of us Filipinos believed that China was bluffing when it sent ships and sea patrols to the contested islands in the Spratlys.  Now, it seems China is determined to do everything to take control of the islands and surrounding waters which the Philippines has laid claim to.

Invoking its unfair and absurd fisheries laws, China bans Filipinos from the disputed zones. It forbids Filipino fishermen from seeking shelter in the shoals even during bad weather. And recently, it went a step further by firing water cannons to drive away Filipinos from the area. Also, the Chinese Coast Guard doused two fishing boats with wastewater and used oil for no apparent reason.

If China is planning something to disrupt peace and stability in the region, it better prepare itself for rejection, not only by the Philippines, but also by its Asian neighbors, which are disturbed by China’s harsh actions. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations should speak with one voice and agree on a course of action to stop China’s adventurism and to reach a peaceful and just resolution of their disputes with China and among themselves.

—AMAR S. QUIMBO,

amar_quimbo@

yahoo.com