Manila: Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. clarified that his call for the resignation of government officials unwilling to uphold the Philippines' position on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is rooted in their legal obligations, not their personal or political beliefs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro emphasized that no public official can be asked to step down 'just because of a belief,' underscoring that his earlier remarks were based on existing Philippine laws and policies governing the WPS. He referred to Administrative Order No. 29, signed in 2012, which designates the maritime areas on the western side of the Philippine archipelago as the WPS, as the legal foundation for his statements.
Teodoro reiterated that all public officials, especially those elected into office, are sworn to uphold the constitution and laws of the country. He stated, 'Public officials are sworn to obey and uphold all laws, rules, and regulations issued in accordance with law.' He added that officials who disagree with the country's legal position have the option to seek redress through the courts but cannot ignore existing laws while in office.
Highlighting the legal duty of public officials, Teodoro said, 'If a public official cannot uphold these, then the duty is clear. Uphold or file an action to declare the rule or law unconstitutional. Until that time, there is no option but to uphold the law.' He further asserted that officials unable to conform to these legal obligations should resign.
Teodoro also pointed to the Philippines' recent submission to the United Nations, which supports its extended continental shelf claim, including waters surrounding Bajo de Masinloc, as reinforcing the country's legal stance in the WPS. 'These areas form part of the West Philippine Sea under AO 29. Are they not supporting this? If not, then what is their sworn duty?' he questioned.
He warned that any public official opposing the country's maritime claims should make their position clear, stressing that their stance would be noted in history and have implications for communities such as those in Masinloc, Zambales, affected by China's activities.
Teodoro criticized misleading reports about his earlier statements, dismissing them as 'fake news' and cautioning against relying on headlines that could misinterpret his words. 'To do so would be an injustice to our people and to patriotic Filipinos,' he said.
His comments followed recent tensions in the West Philippine Sea, including confrontations near Ayungin Shoal and ongoing efforts by the Marcos administration to assert the country's sovereign rights through diplomacy, international law, and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
