The geopolitical tensions in the West Philippine Sea – uncertain, unpredictable, unhinged – are hurting not only our valiant Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard personnel and our tireless fishermen but our businessmen as well, especially those doing business with China. Indeed, some of these businessmen are feeling the brunt, too – now more than ever, my sources say. I heard that it has become difficult for them to deal with suppliers from China. They are encountering delays in shipments, higher costs or non-availability of orders. Philippine exports to China are likewise facing challenges as China is now quietly sourcing from Vietnam and Cambodia, sources also say.

Gonzales, I. (2024, June 30). De-escalation. The Philippine Star, p. 8.