Vice President Jejomar Binay on Wednesday supported the Philippines' move to file a case against China before a United Nations arbitration body, saying it is an expression of commitment of President Benigno Aquino III to protect Philippine sovereignty.
"The filing of the case before the UN tribunal is an expression of our desire to resolve the dispute with China within the framework of international law," Binay said in a press statement.
Binay urged China to recognize the jurisdiction of the UN body, saying this would help advance peace and harmony in the ASEAN region.
"President Aquino is committed to protect our sovereignty and is likewise committed to resolving the dispute with China in a peaceful manner. I am hopeful that China, in the interest of greater peace and harmony in the region, would recognize the jurisdiction of the UN arbitration tribunal in accordance with international law," the Vice President said.
He emphasized the dispute "should not define our relations with China, considering the historic and cultural ties that bind our two nations."
"A peaceful resolution, under the purview of international law, would be in the best interest of both countries and the ASEAN region," Binay said.
The United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), which is chaired by the Vice President, likewise expressed its full support for the administration's action.
"President Aquino has consistently defended our sovereignty against provocative moves by China," UNA Secretary General Toby Tiangco said.
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