Duterte administration takes a low-key approach in fighting for our sovereignty. But in effect, Duterte has won back sovereignty for the Filipino people. Aquino and Del Rosario thought that by bringing the Americans and Japanese to our side, Beijing would bow to the pressure. But the result was to the contrary. Duterte is far more suave in his diplomacy. By advocating mutual respect, he was able to establish a friendly relationship with the “supposed-to-be enemy”. He not only regained sovereignty for the Philippines, he also obtained commitments and actions from China to enhance investment and trade development of the country. Critics should stop accusing President Duterte of being “defeatist”. His political wisdom and diplomatic achievement deserve high respect and full support from the Filipino people.

Peña Sy, E. G. (2017, April 11). Duterte won back PH sovereignty over West Philippine Sea. The Manila Times, p. A6.