Protesters hold a demonstration in Manila on June 18 to call on Philippine authorities to take a stand against China's call for a joint investigation into the sinking of a fishing boat in the South China Sea. (Photo by Jire Carreon)
Several Philippine church leaders have joined growing opposition to a proposal for a joint Philippine-China investigation into the sinking of a fishing boat in the South China Sea.
On June 9, a Philippine fishing boat sank near the Reed Bank, a disputed area in the South China Sea, after a Chinese fishing vessel reportedly hit it while it was at anchor. The Chinese vessel allegedly sailed away, leaving the 22 Filipinos aboard the sinking ship. A Vietnamese fishing vessel later rescued the crew. Bishop Arturo Bastes of Sorsoghon said a probe into the incident should be conducted by an independent body instead of officials from both countries. "[It] is the best way to find out the facts," he said. "A thorough, impartial and independent investigation must be carried out," said Bishop Ruperto Santos of Balanga. Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo said the Philippines should not only make an "honest to goodness" investigation but should also "lodge a protest against China." "We should not surrender our own sovereignty. The abandonment of the hapless fishermen is already a serious case," he added. China earlier suggested a joint investigation into the incident. The presidential palace announced that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has already accepted the "offer." An opposition senator, however, said a joint probe could violate the country's Fisheries Code, which mandates the government safeguard the safety of the country's fishery and aquatic resources. "Part also of the government's mandate is to address foreign illegal entry into our waters," Senator Francis Pangilinan said in a statement.