First Lady Meets China Envoy Amid Tensions
China’s newly appointed envoy to the Philippines held talks with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos in Manila, signaling an attempt to maintain diplomatic channels as bilateral tensions over the West Philippine Sea persist. The meeting occurred days after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of constructive dialogue amid ongoing maritime disputes. The rapprochement comes against a backdrop of recent confrontations at sea and official protests lodged by Manila.
Bill Seeks Mandated West Philippine Sea Education in Schools
A significant legislative push took shape this week as Senate Bill No. 1625 — the “West Philippine Sea Education Act” — was filed to institutionalize education and awareness programs about the West Philippine Sea in basic and higher education.
The measure, championed by Senator Erwin T. Tulfo, aims to integrate evidence-based instruction on maritime rights, international law, and national policy into school curricula. It would require coordination between the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority to develop standardized materials and training for teachers.
Proponents say the bill will empower Filipinos with accurate knowledge to participate in discussions on the West Philippine Sea, support maritime rights, and counter misinformation.