Don't vote for pro-China candidates in May elections

Two allies of President Marcos in the House of Representatives yesterday urged voters to reject local and national candidates in the May 12 elections who support China's actions in the West Philippine Sea.

- By DELON PORCALLA

In separate statements, Reps. Jay Khonghun of Zambales' first district and Paolo Ortega V of La Union's first district warned of the dangers of electing pro-Beijing officials, for both local and national posts.

House Deputy Majority Leader Ortega issued his statement following reports that a Chinese vessel had deployed a sonic device against a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) ship near Zambales. The device, which emits deafening noise, posed serious risks to the health and safety of Philippine personnel.

"This is no longer just about the West Philippine Sea - it's about our future as a nation," he warned.

"Supporting candidates who are soft on China is the same as endorsing the harassment of our Coast Guard and the exploitation of our natural resources," he added.