House probe sought on ‘gentleman’s agreement’ with China

MANILA, Philippines — An administration lawmaker is urging the House of Representatives to conduct a probe into the reported gentleman’s agreement on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) between former president Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Rep. Jefferson Khonghun of Zambales’ first district is calling for a congressional inquiry into the matter, expressing grave concerns over the potential compromise of the Philippines’ territory and sovereignty.

“The integrity of our nation’s sovereignty cannot be subjected to clandestine agreements that undermine the rights of the Filipino people,” said Khonghun, a member of the so-called “Young Guns” group of lawmakers in the House of Representatives.

Khonghun’s first district in Zambales includes the coastal areas of the West Philippine Sea.

This move comes after President Marcos said he was “horrified” that a “secret agreement” might have compromised the country’s territory, sovereignty and sovereign rights in the WPS.

The alleged agreement is widely believed to have given China leverage to shift blame onto the Philippines amid escalating tensions in the WPS.

According to Khonghun, his alignment with the President’s position reflects a broader trend among legislators, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in matters of national sovereignty and security.

“It is imperative that we shed light on any agreements or arrangements that could potentially compromise our country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Khonghun pointed out.

“The Filipino people deserve to know the truth and hold accountable those responsible for any actions that may jeopardize our national interests,” he said.

China ‘thankful’ for deals

The Chinese embassy, meanwhile, said yesterday it was thankful for previous agreements struck with the Philippine government, as it reiterated its call for Manila to abide by the commitments.

“Thanks to the understandings and agreements reached by the two sides, the overall peace and stability at Ayungin Shoal was maintained in the past few years,” the embassy said in a statement.

It again urged the Philippines to “value and honor their commitments, abide by the consensus,” but again