HOUSE Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales 1st District Rep. Jefferson Khonghun has joined President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. in condemning the alleged “gentleman’s agreement” between former President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping concerning the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Khonghun, a member of the “Young Guns” or a group of dynamic leaders in the House of Representatives, also urged for a congressional inquiry into the matter, expressing grave concerns over the potential compromise of the Philippines’ territory and sovereignty.
“The integrity of our nation’s sovereignty cannot be subjected to clandestine agreements that undermine the rights of the Filipino people,” Khonghun, whose jurisdiction includes the coastal areas of the West Philippine Sea, said.
This move comes after President Marcos publicly denounced the purported agreement, stating his horror at the notion of such a compromise.
The Chief Executive articulated his distress, emphasizing the potential ramifications of the supposed Duterte-Xi deal on the country’s territorial integrity.
The alleged agreement is widely believed to have given China leverage to shift blame onto the Philippines amid escalating tensions in the WPS.
According to Khonghun, his alignment with the President’s position reflects a broader trend among legislators, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in matters of national sovereignty and security.
“It is imperative that we shed light on any agreements or arrangements that could potentially compromise our country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Khonghun pointed out.
He continued, “The Filipino people deserve to know the truth and hold accountable those responsible for any actions that may jeopardize our national interests.”
The legislator expressed hope the inquiry will provide clarity and decisive measures to uphold the interests of the Philippines in the WPS.
“The Filipino people are rightfully concerned about the implications of any agreements made in secrecy, particularly when it comes to our territorial sovereignty,” Khonghun remarked.
“It is our duty as public servants to ensure that their concerns are addressed and that the interests of the Philippines are protected,” he added.
