To remove the mistrust and suspicion that is obviously being exploited by opposition and their US handlers, maybe an agreement can be sorted out to convert the Panatag Shoal into a free zone where, as it was before, the Philippines would allow Chinese fishermen to make their catch in the area with the Philippines having jurisdiction, in recognition of the fact that it is within the EEZ, with the right to erect installation for maritime navigation and for marine and ecological safeguarding of the area; and to commit ourselves not to allow the area to be used or converted into a foreign military base.

Kapunan, R. P. (2017, April 1). Panatag Shoal. Manila Standard, p. A5.