‘WPS, atin ‘to!’

Politicizing the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue is certainly the main reason why we couldn’t push for a collective agenda. By shifting it from a legal, environmentalv and sovereign rights framework into an arena of domestic political maneuvering and polarized international posturing, it results in a sharp political dividing line that makes unified action impossible to achieve.

This is unfortunate, considering that every Filipino, regardless of political color, basically expresses strong support for Philippine sovereignty. Nobody in his right mind would be pro-China.

In fact, as surveys indicate, everyone understands the value of asserting our rights in the West Philippine Sea. The only problem really is that opinions vary as regards the best strategic approach.

Some opt for hard-line military deterrence and closer foreign alliances, while others prefer peaceful or independent diplomatic dialogue. A small minority, meanwhile, remain undecided, hold pro-engagement views with China, or express concern that escalating tensions could lead to open conflict.

But at the end of the day, they are all bound by a common desire to remain independent and free.

Unfortunately, conniving politicians use the issue as an opportunity for political posturing. Pro-administration allies use their transparency initiatives to make it appear that their opponents are outright traitors, while opposition figures and other rival factions use the issue to accuse the administration of recklessly risking war.

This is sad.

Instead of looking for ways to resolve the issue and galvanize the people to take collective action, these politicos deliberately sow discord to weaken each other’s chances in the 2028 elections.

Unfortunately, brainwashed supporters exacerbate the problem by allowing themselves to be used by these unscrupulous politicians whose only goal really is to perpetuate themselves in power and enrich themselves further at the expense of the people. They share misleading narratives that discredit opponents and insult their supporters.

If only our people could finally go beyond politics, ours would definitely be a better place to live in. But that remains a pipe dream.