Manila: Think-tank Stratbase Institute on Wednesday scored attempts made by "foreign interests", aimed to weaken the Philippine government's enforcement actions against Chinese-linked steel manufacturing facilities accused of violating Philippine laws.
According to Philippines News Agency, Stratbase Institute president Victor Andres Manhit, in a statement, expressed concern over reported threats to arrest Filipinos in China if the Chinese workers detained during the raids were not released. "We have seen how simply speaking out against violations of our country's sovereignty could impact anybody, even our own Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro," Manhit said.
He was referring to the sanctions imposed by the Chinese government against the Defense Secretary last June over his strong stance and remarks regarding the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Teodoro and his family have been barred from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, and Chinese firms and individuals are prohibited from conducting business with the family.
"We must assert that no foreign government can dictate how Philippine agencies and courts enforce domestic laws or intimidate officials carrying out their duties," Manhit said.
Likewise, the Stratbase Institute official said the Philippines must enforce its laws consistently, protect its people and environment, defend sovereign right to govern its territory free from foreign coercion, and pursue the investigations transparently, observe due process and hold violators accountable.
Manhit's statement comes amid government raids on Chinese-linked steel plants in Pampanga, Misamis Oriental and Davao, where authorities reportedly found radioactive materials, toxic waste, illegal emissions and substandard steel products. Reports said over 40 more entities are currently under investigation for suspected illegal activities, which raises serious concerns for workers, communities, consumers, and the environment.
'Legitimate Philippine enforcement must not be mischaracterized as xenophobia, nor should Chinese nationals or Filipino-Chinese communities be unfairly targeted,' Manhit added.
