PH open to dialogue to address sea conflict

The Philippines remains open to dialogue and diplomatic engagement to address conflicts in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), in line with President Marcos' directive, but talks should not be at the expense of sovereignty and national interest.

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

DINAGYANG REVELRY - Brightly lit headgear and hand-held lanterns form the focal point of this dance group's presentation (top photo) at the 10mination Festival of Lights that was one of the highlights of the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. Photo at left shows the nighttime spectacle passing through SM City Iloilo, which features its AwesSM Iloilo 2026, providing Ilonggos and visitors alike with unforgettable Dinagyang experiences.

(Mark Balmores)

National Maritime Council (NMC) spokesperson Alexander Lopez stressed this in an interview with state-run PTV-4, pointing out that the West Philippine Sea dispute is a long-term, intergenerational challenge that demands restraint, consistency, and firm adherence to international law as the Philippines continues to face aggressive actions and rhetoric from China.

"We are open to dialogue, but our national interest must always prevail in this process," Lopez asserted.

He said the issue is not a shortterm standoff but a sustained test of national resolve that will extend beyond any single administration.

"The struggle over the West Philippine Sea is intergenerational or long-term, which is why the government is carefully and seriously addressing this challenge in a peaceful, legal, and principled manner)," he said.

Lopez added that the government expects the challenge to persist, underscoring the need for patience and discipline in both actions and messaging.

"We see that this challenge will continue to be felt throughout this yea)," he added.

No provocation

Lopez rejected China's claim that the presence of Philippine government vessels and Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea constitutes provocation, stressing that such activities are lawful and grounded in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).