US Senator Marco Rubio issued a stern warning to China, urging the country to halt its interference in the Philippines and Taiwan.
Rubio’s statement came during his confirmation hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, where he was nominated to serve as Secretary of State under incoming U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Atty. Joenar Pueblo, a political law professor at the University of San Agustin College of Law, expressed that Rubio’s warning could significantly benefit the Philippines amid China’s aggressive actions in the region.
According to Pueblo, despite Rubio not yet officially assuming the position, his statement signals the United States’ readiness to defend its economic interests and allies.
Pueblo emphasized that China should not disregard Rubio’s warning, as it reflects America’s stance on protecting its partners from external pressure.
Rubio specifically cited China’s deployment of a 165-meter-long coast guard vessel, commonly referred to as the “monster ship,” near Zambales.
He described the move as a form of “harassment” against the Philippines, further highlighting the ongoing tension in the region.
This development underscores the increasing global scrutiny of China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea and its broader implications for international relations.
