From the Filipino fishermen’s account, the Chinese vessel’s act in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) sinking their boat -- almost killing them -- was deliberate, an aggressive act against the Philippines, endangering our territorial integrity and security. Pursuant to our Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States, an attack on our country shall be deemed an attack on the US and vice-versa “so that no potential aggressor could be under the illusion that either of them stands alone in the Pacific Area.” Though the attack did not technically happen in the “Pacific area,” the MDT’s unmistakable intent include any violent act against the Philippines, a strategic Pacific country.

Sta. Maria, M. (2019, June 21). Alliance with the US must be enforced to deter China's aggressive acts. Manila Bulletin, p. 8.