House leaders rallied behind the proposed “gentleman’s agreement” between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) yesterday to ensure a stable and peaceful West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Eastern Samar Representative Ben Evardone, chairman of the House Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries, cited the Duterte government’s efforts in pursuing a peaceful strategy that would ensure peace and stability in the region after the ASEAN and China finalized a draft framework for negotiating a code of conduct (COC).“Secretary (Alan Peter) Cayetano’s proposal is laudable to ensure peace, stability, and development in the region. The adoption of a Code of Conduct is very essential in ensuring freedom of navigation,” he said.

Luci-Antienza, C. M. (2017, May 22). House leaders rally behind ‘gentleman’s agreement’ on West Philippine Sea. Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 6.