We understand the importance of taking a pragmatic approach because of the economic benefits to be gained. We also understand that China wants to play a bigger role on the world stage. But legal and maritime experts believe that we should not put sovereignty in the back burner. Thus, while the talks are going on, while we try to seek ways by which we can strengthen our ties with China – through exchange in the fields of education, culture, and science in addition to economic and trade relations, we must always keep the national interest foremost in the search for solutions.

Braid, F. (2017, May 20). Rule of law must prevail in the South China Sea dispute. Manila Bulletin, p. 12.