Senate to set rules for China discussions over WPS

Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said Saturday that the Senate will summon an all-senators’ assembly on Monday, 23 February, to define the parameters for possible discussions with the Chinese embassy amid tensions over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Lacson described the Chinese ambassador’s willingness to engage as a chance to calm rising tensions between certain senators and Chinese officials.

“Not necessarily to argue about the Kalayaan Island Group or the West Philippine Sea, but at least we will establish parameters on how to communicate with each other so that we do not end up hurting one another," Lacson said in Filipino.

The planned caucus follows heated exchanges between members of the Senate and the Chinese Embassy, including statements made by Rodante Marcoleta regarding the dispute over the Kalayaan Island Group.

Lacson said all senators, including Marcoleta, are free to participate in the discussion.

He emphasized that any potential meeting with Chinese officials would aim to clarify communication channels and prevent further diplomatic friction, rather than serve as a place for confrontation.