MANILA — The Philippines’ credibility could be jeopardized by the alleged “gentleman’s agreement” between former President Rodrigo Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping, a House lawmaker said Wednesday as the chamber mulls investigation into the “secret deal.”
Duterte had said that he and Xi only agreed to maintain “status quo” at the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, where an aging Philippine military outpost is located.
Incumbent officials said the Philippines is not compelled to honor the alleged deal, angering China.
House Assistant Majority Leader and Zambales Rep. Jay Khonghun said the House of Representatives should hold an investigation to find out the truth once and for all.
“Kailangan siguraduhin natin meron tayong kredibilidad sa pakikipag-usap sa ibang bansa. Baka naman hindi na tayo paniwalaan dahil iba ang sinasabi ng China, iba ang sinasabi ng dating Pangulo,” Khonghun told ANC’s Headstart.
Khonghun believes an inquiry is needed due to the “silence” of former Duterte officials who are allegedly knowledgeable about the “secret deal.”
“Sinabi nga ni Duterte na marami syang kasama sa pulong na yon pero nakakapagtaka na hindi sila nagsasalita ngayon… Kailangan talaga natin magkaroon ng congressional inquiry regarding that matter,” he said.
“Napaakaimportante na malaman natin ang totoo at kung may batas bang nilabag,” Khonghun added.
Khonghun said the House leaders would decide on whether to hold an inquiry on the issue when sessions resume later this month.
Earlier, a senator had also asked the Senate to conduct an investigation into the agreement, calling it “treasonous.”
President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. earlier said he was “horrified at the idea that we have compromised through a secret agreement the territory, sovereignty, and sovereign rights of the Philippines.”
