HOUSE Assistant Majority Leader Jay Khonghun of Zambales on Monday urged Filipino voters to reject candidates who support China’s interests in the upcoming May elections, warning against the dangers of electing leaders who will compromise national sovereignty in the face of China’s illegal incursions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Khonghun, House Special Committee on Bases Conversion chairman, pointed to recent surveys showing a growing number of Filipinos opposing China’s aggressive actions in Philippine waters, including a Pulse Asia survey commissioned by the Stratbase ADR Institute revealed that 73% of Filipinos would not support candidates perceived to be pro-China, reflecting a nationwide sentiment of distrust towards the foreign power.
Similarly, an OCTA Research survey in March 2024 found that 76% of Filipinos view China as the country’s “greatest threat,” underscoring deep-seated concerns over territorial integrity and national security.
“Malinaw ang mensahe ng ating mga kababayan. Hindi nila tatanggapin ang mga kandidato na pumapanig sa China. Ang eleksyon ngayong Mayo ay pagkakataon nating ipakita na hindi natin ibebenta ang ating soberanya,” Khonghun stressed.
He added that it is crucial for Filipinos to elect leaders who will stand firm against China’s continued harassment of Filipino fisherfolk and its unlawful activities in the WPS.
“Ang darating na eleksyon ay mahalaga hindi lamang para magluklok tayo ng ating mga lokal at pambansang lider, kundi isyu na rin ito ng national security. We must choose leaders who will defend our territorial rights, not those who will bow down to China’s influence,” he said.
Khonghun emphasized the need for a strong and united stand against foreign aggression, reminding voters that their choices will shape the country’s future.
“Ang boto natin ay sandata laban sa mga kandidatong nagpapagamit sa China. Huwag natin hayaan na masira ang kinabukasan ng ating bayan,” he said.
According to the lawmaker, candidates with questionable ties to China should be thoroughly scrutinized, as their policies could undermine the country’s economic and security interests. He urged voters to prioritize patriotism and integrity over short-term promises and political alliances.
Khonghun also warned against disinformation campaigns aimed at misleading voters into supporting pro-China candidates.
“The Chinese propaganda machinery is at work, influencing narratives and promoting their chosen candidates. We must stay vigilant and informed,” he cautioned.
He called on the Filipino people to stand united in rejecting external interference and protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
“Panahon na upang ipakita natin ang ating pagkakaisa bilang isang bansa,” he declared.
Khonghun reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for policies that will strengthen the country’s defense capabilities and support local industries affected by China’s economic maneuvers. He also urged his fellow lawmakers to adopt a more assertive stance in safeguarding the nation’s interests.
“We will not allow China’s creeping influence to dictate our future. The Filipino people deserve leaders who will fight for them, not those who will sell out their principles,” Khonghun said
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