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PEZA anticipates more Chinese investments in PH
Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Tereso O. Panga said more Chinese companies are choosing the Philippines as their next investment destination for their operations, at the completion of the 20th China-ASEAN Expo last 19 September. “With our robust economic performance and aggressive investment strategy, we are bullish in attracting more Chinese investments to the country especially in our ecozones, which can provide the best business ecosystem for our investors,” said Panga. During the Philippine Investment Forum in China, Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime A. FlorCruz highlighted that Chinese investors have expressed positive and increased interest in locating in the Philippines. He reported that the state visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. secured over $22 billion in strategic investment commitments. FlorCruz also stated that “In the past 6 months since I took this role as Ambassador, I have met many Chinese executives actively seeking investment opportunities across numerous industries in the Philippines. Many are now poised to invest in the Philippines.” After the forum, two big Chinese companies met with Philippine officials to discuss business opportunities. One company, a leading global provider of smart devices, seeks to expand its presence in the Philippines, especially in the area of consumer electronics. Another company, one of the five largest power generation groups in China, aims to bring in renewable energy projects to the country. PEZA seeks to attract investments from high-tech industries and emerging technologies in industrial manufacturing transport, technology media and telecommunications, health and life sciences, agro-processing, renewable energy development and green ores. To date, a total of 164 Chinese companies/projects are registered at PEZA, generating P25.822 billion investments (as of May 2023) and creating 16,221 direct jobs (as of March 2023). On the sidelines of the CAEXPO, Panga represented the Philippines during the Roundtable Meeting on Investment Cooperation with the theme: “China-ASEAN Cooperation in Green Low-Carbon and Digital Economy”. He noted, “The China-ASEAN Cooperation in Green Low-Carbon and Digital Economy represents a vital step toward sustainable development, environmental conservation and economic growth, not just for the participating nations but for the entire world.” The PEZA Chief also laid out some of the initiatives of PEZA and the national government to contribute to attaining the Sustainable Development Goals. These projects include the integration of SDGs to the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028 and PEZA’s participation in the Global Reporting Initiative. PEZA is strengthening its ecozone development initiatives as part of the medium-term strategies under the PDP 2023-2028. Panga explained that on top of the conventional ecozones, PEZA is venturing into new frontiers in ecozone development to cater to new industries and to promote emerging global eco-industrial park models in the Philippines. “We intend to transform our ecozones and our registered export enterprises to be more sustainable, resilient and innovative and thereby make them competitive in the local and global value chain,” he said. So far, PEZA manages 422 economic zones nationwide which host 4,352 locator companies engaged in various industries including export manufacturing and IT-BPO. Considered as one of the largest expositions in China, the CAEXPO is an international economic and trade event co-sponsored by the central governments of China and the ASEAN countries. It is one of the key projects that form part of the Philippine-China Development Plan and is a major promotional platform that supports the country’s ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement. PEZA is the lone investment promotion agency partner of the Department of Trade and Industry export promotion arm Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions for the CAEXPO participation. Following this event, PEZA joined the Special Envoy to China for the Philippine Investors’ Roadshow in Beijing, China on 26-30 September 2023. The post PEZA anticipates more Chinese investments in PH appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Long-game scenario
Employing lawfare and so-called grey zone tactics may point to China preparing for the long haul, according to experts. The tactic involves wearing down its opponents in the South China Sea conflict while waiting for a suitable administration in the United States, which would again give less importance to America’s stabilizing role in the Asia-Pacific region. China’s preparations for a protracted conflict are evident in its latest moves, from making public the 10-dash line claim, the absence of Chinese President Xi Jinping from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit in Jakarta, and the water spraying by a Chinese Coast Guard vessel of a Philippine Navy boat on a mission to resupply the grounded Sierra Madre. Regional analysts said China is employing a combination of lawfare, which is the use of legal systems and institutions to undermine an opponent, and gray zone tactics, which are maneuvers short of war that point to a conflict for the long haul. China’s drafting of a new map was timed to reassert its territorial claims and flex its muscles ahead of the ASEAN and G20 Summits. It did gain a measure of success as in the joint statements customarily issued at the end of the events; there was no explicit mention of China despite most members of the regional blocs expressing concerns about its assertive actions in the disputed waters. Collin Koh, a senior fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies based at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, said the elephant in the room, amid the increasing aggressiveness of the Asian giant, was China’s undergoing multiple crises. Koh said that while lawfare and maritime coercion have been part and parcel of Beijing’s toolkit in the past, “there has been an obvious uptick that coincided with China’s domestic problems, which are property market woes, high youth unemployment, and sluggish exports.” For instance, during the term of former President Rodrigo Duterte, “the Philippines was subjected to boat swarming tactics similar to those recently seen.” The use of such methods intensified after the Philippines announced an expanded Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States, which Beijing interpreted as one of America’s efforts to intervene in its conflict with Taiwan. For China, digging in and preparing for a long engagement is beneficial. At Ayungin Shoal, China has been blocking Philippine missions to repair the dilapidated landing ship grounded there since it knows that the rusting hull would not last too long and nature will take care of its eventual removal. It can simply wear down the country’s resolve until it abandons its hold on the shoal, or so China believes. China is trying to prevent a united stand in the region since lawfare can be matched by counter-lawfare, such as by tightening existing legal maritime provisions or creating new ones in line with international law to assert the other claimant nations’ interests, according to geopolitical experts. ASEAN has inherent structural limitations make it challenging to take a united position on the South China Sea disputes. China exploits these limitations, such as the ASEAN decision-making process, where a disagreement by one member defeats a unified stand of the 10-nation group. Thus, the role of powers outside the region remains more important than ever to backstop the efforts to maintain stability while following international law. Previous talk about matching the military prowess of China, particularly for the long haul, would be impossible for the Philippines. This was why the alliance with the United States through EDCA was strengthened — to give the Philippines the minimum defense capability against aggressors. The post Long-game scenario appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The vital role of ASEAN
The ASEAN-UN Comprehensive Partnership is more important than ever. We face tests as far as the eye can see — from the climate emergency to a global cost-of-living crisis, raging conflicts and growing poverty, hunger, and inequalities. All these challenges are aggravated by rising geopolitical tensions. There is a real risk of fragmentation — of a Great Fracture in world economic and financial systems, with diverging strategies on technology and artificial intelligence and conflicting security frameworks. I commend ASEAN for your vital role in building bridges of understanding all over the world. ASEAN has played an extremely important role as a center that convenes all those that, unfortunately, represent the most dramatic divisions in today’s world and these series of summits is a demonstration of that fundamental convening role of ASEAN. And we need it in a world that is increasingly multipolar and that requires strong multilateral institutions to go with it — based on equity, solidarity and universality. I am grateful for your steadfast support for multilateral solutions and your contribution of over 5,000 peacekeepers from ASEAN countries. ASEAN’s convening power, commitment to dialogue and experience in conflict prevention are crucial pillars of stability. Today, tensions remain high from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. I am grateful to ASEAN member states for your pursuit of dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, rooted in the respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Since we gathered last year, the situation in Myanmar has further deteriorated. Brutal violence, worsening poverty and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy. The conflict is exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities faced by women and girls, including sexual violence, forced marriage and human trafficking. More and more people are crossing borders in a desperate search for safety and protection and the situation is untenable. Over one million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, in the world’s largest refugee camp. And, regrettably, the conditions for their safe, voluntary and dignified return are not yet in sight. Much more is needed. My call to the military authorities of Myanmar is clear: Free all detained leaders and political prisoners; open the door toward the full restoration of democratic rule. We must also end our assault against the planet. ASEAN ranks amongst the most biodiversity-rich regions — and is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. We can still limit the worst impacts and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. ASEAN is uniquely positioned to be a leader of an energy transition that is global, sustainable, just, inclusive and equitable. I commend ASEAN member states that are pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships like Indonesia and Viet Nam. And I commend all who are accelerating the phaseout of coal and jumpstarting a fair and inclusive renewables revolution. But greater ambition is needed still — along with much greater support. Developed countries must finally deliver on their commitments to developing countries. Resources are also central to rescuing the Sustainable Development Goals. I have called for deep and structural changes to make global frameworks — including the Bretton Woods system — more representative of today’s economic and political realities and also more responsive. Such change will not happen overnight — and I have proposed concrete steps we can take now, including an SDG Stimulus of US$500 billion a year to the benefit of developing countries for them to be able to reach the Sustainable Goals. This and other action would catalyze SDG progress and help developing economies invest in key transitions across energy, food systems, digital, education, health, decent jobs and social protection. I count on ASEAN member states to help raise global ambition in the vital months ahead. And you can always count on my wholehearted support to shape a future of peace and prosperity for the people of Southeast Asia and the world. *** Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the ASEAN-UN Summit, 7 September 2023. The post The vital role of ASEAN appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ASEAN summit ‘productive’, biz meetings net $22M investment pledges: Marcos
JAKARTA, Indonesia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit demonstrated the commitment of countries in the region to regional cooperation and multilateralism. In his latest YouTube vlog on Thursday, Marcos said that the summit was a productive one, and that he was able to promote and highlight key interests of ASEAN. He said these interests include food and energy security, security, migrant workers protection, climate change, and digital transformation. "I was able to participate in 12-leaders level meetings, including with Australia, Canada, China, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the United States and the United Nations," Marcos said. "In these meetings, I promoted and highlighted key interests of ASEAN, such as food and energy, security, migrant workers protection, climate change and digital transformation --- issues that are of strategic importance to the Philippines," he added. Marcos also said that he had a productive meeting with the President of the World Bank Group, where they discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in areas such as climate change adaptation and mitigation, and sustainable development. On the sidelines of the summit, Marcos met with top executives of select Indonesian companies who are looking at the Philippines to expand their presence further. He said that these meetings resulted in $22 million in investment commitments in areas crucial for the Philippines' economic recovery efforts, such as agriculture and the digital economy. Marcos also witnessed the signing of the Philippine-Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which he said would strengthen the Philippines' bilateral trade and investment relations with South Korea. "The FTA will generate jobs and contribute to the Philippine value proposition as an ideal regional hub for smart, sustainable investment," Marcos said. Marcos reiterated that the Philippines will chair the ASEAN in 2026 instead of 2027. He said that the Philippines stepped up to this role to ensure the continuity of its progress towards a people-oriented, people-centered, inclusive, and resilient ASEAN community. He also thanked and congratulated Indonesian President Joko Widodo for "his very able stewardship" as chair of ASEAN this year and for making ASEAN as important as it ever has been. "I also thank them for the very warm hospitality of the Philippine delegation, And I look forward to able leadership of Lao PDR when they host the ASEAN in 2025," he said. The post ASEAN summit ‘productive’, biz meetings net $22M investment pledges: Marcos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SCS conflict, bigger ASEAN problem
As Southeast Asian leaders gather in Jakarta for their regional summit, fears have been raised over the bloc getting dragged into big-power rivalry as they seek to dispel worries about rifts over peace efforts in Myanmar and to reaffirm the relevance of their disparate group. No less than Indonesian President Joko Widodo, opening the summit of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations Tuesday called on the members to devise a “long-term tactical strategy that is relevant and meets people’s expectations.” He said ASEAN has agreed not to be a proxy for any powers. “Don’t turn our ship into an arena for rivalry that is destructive,” he warned in his opening remarks. Founded at the height of the Cold War in the 1960s to oppose the spread of communism, the politically diverse grouping prioritizes unity and non-interference in members’ internal affairs. But that is easier said than done. While they may be too concerned over rifts in the peace efforts in Myanmar, a bigger problem, probably as big as the South China Sea, looms over their heads. The disputed waterway, a region rich in resources and of strategic importance, has been a focal point of tension and disputes among various nations for decades. In the event of conflict erupting in the South China Sea, ASEAN will find itself facing complex challenges and crucial decisions. Before delving into ASEAN’s role in a potential South China Sea conflict, it is essential to understand the complexities of the disputes in the region. Multiple claimants, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan, assert sovereignty over various islands, reefs, and waters in the South China Sea. These overlapping territorial claims have created an atmosphere of tension, with incidents of naval confrontations, militarization of islands, and increased military presence. While several attempts have been made to address these disputes through diplomatic means, the situation remains precarious. ASEAN’s core principles include the promotion of peace, stability, and prosperity in the region through diplomatic dialogue, non-interference in internal affairs, and consensus-based decision-making. The regional bloc has demonstrated a commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea or DOC and subsequent efforts to negotiate a legally binding Code of Conduct or CoC with China reflect this commitment. ASEAN’s role, therefore, is primarily that of a mediator and facilitator of negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and preventing the escalation of conflicts. But what if a conflict erupts in the South China Sea? Would ASEAN uphold its fundamental principles, particularly the peaceful resolution of disputes, to prevent the outbreak of full-scale hostilities? Would it engage in shuttle diplomacy, urging all parties to exercise restraint and explore diplomatic solutions? This is where ASEAN’s role as a platform for regional dialogue becomes crucial. It should intensify diplomatic efforts to facilitate negotiations between the involved parties. This can include organizing summits, dialogues, and confidence-building measures to foster an environment conducive to resolving disputes peacefully. Furthermore, ASEAN should encourage adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. By promoting respect for international norms, ASEAN can help maintain order and deter any unilateral actions that could lead to a military confrontation. While ASEAN has the potential to play a constructive role in mitigating conflict, several challenges could hinder its effectiveness. One such challenge is the divergent interests and allegiances among ASEAN member states. Some nations may be more inclined to side with external powers, like the United States or China, depending on their strategic interests and alliances. Maintaining ASEAN’s unity in the face of external pressures will be a considerable challenge. Another challenge is the historical reluctance of some ASEAN members to confront China directly due to economic ties or political considerations. Balancing economic interests with regional security concerns will require skillful diplomacy and could strain ASEAN’s cohesion. Moreover, the absence of a legally binding CoC in the South China Sea complicates ASEAN’s efforts to manage conflicts. The negotiations for such an agreement have been protracted, and there is no guarantee of a successful outcome. ASEAN must navigate these challenges while advocating for a peaceful resolution. In the event of conflict in the South China Sea, therefore, ASEAN’s role would be pivotal in preventing further escalation and facilitating a peaceful resolution. Unless it wants to erase its image as a mere talk shop, the regional bloc should address this issue now while there is time. Otherwise, it might be too late. The post SCS conflict, bigger ASEAN problem appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CoC reveries
An aversion to table the West Philippine Sea conflict and speeding up the progress of the Code of Conduct, or CoC, between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, and China is very evident in the ongoing Summit in Indonesia. The maritime conflict is not even on the official agenda and will be tackled only through optional bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the yearly assembly, which is all under the wishes of China. ASEAN, thus, is pushing itself into irrelevance by acceding to the wishes of China and its cohorts in the regional bloc like Cambodia. Despite its existence as an Economic Community since its inception, with full integration envisioned in 2025, much of its aspirations, including being a cohesive body to advance the interests of its members, remain a pipe dream. The CoC would have been a stellar achievement, but it was described as a moving goal post for more than two decades. In the ongoing ASEAN meeting, all that host Indonesia was able to commit to was a three-year deadline to finalize a CoC. Another set of guidelines is, thus, expected after the Jakarta assembly instead of a pact that will bind all the claimants in the maritime conflict. The guidelines, moreover, will have to be endorsed by regional leaders during the ASEAN-China Summit that is scheduled later. The Philippines is not confident about a substantial progress in the CoC despite its being the most urgent matter to maintain stability in the region. An official of the Department of Foreign Affairs said the outcome of talks on the long-delayed CoC will be limited “to mere reporting of past discussions.” “At most, there will be a report on what happened during the last meeting in the Philippines of the joint working group on the CoC,” which hardly equates to progress. During the third round of CoC talks in Manila from 22 to 24 August, discussions were stuck on the contentious issues of whether or not the CoC would be “legally binding.” China has historically resisted a legally binding CoC, the reason for the existence of the non-binding 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, or DoC. In 2019, Foreign Minister Wang Yi indicated his optimism that a CoC would be completed within three years, or by 2022. It is now 2023. He also announced that China supported a CoC that had “binding force” and was “an upgraded and strengthened version” of the DoC. The discussions then came to a head due to the different perspectives among those at the negotiating table, which are the same obstacles blocking the resolution of the maritime rift. China has refused to recognize the Permanent Court of Arbitration award that the Philippines and other claimant countries use as a basis for their position in the DoC negotiations. In not recognizing the arbitral ruling and insisting on its historical basis for the territorial claims, China and ASEAN are not on the same page in the negotiations, meaning that hopes for an agreement are futile. Like what happened in the local context when the Communist Party of the Philippines sued for negotiations with the government and used it to consolidate its forces, China uses the CoC discussions as a delaying tactic to fortify its position. Its recent release of the 10-dash line, which was a rewriting of its territorial boundaries again based on historical data, proves China is not about to change its position. According to reports on the Summit, China will only support a legally binding code when its historical version prevails. Another term that China wants included in the negotiations is barring countries outside the region from interfering. It also wants economic activities at sea, including oil and gas development, “to be conducted in cooperation with companies from countries outside the region.” China also wants the CoC signatories not to “hold joint military exercises with countries from outside the region, unless the parties concerned are notified beforehand and express no objection.” The untenable conditions appear designed to prevent the CoC from ever coming into being. The post CoC reveries appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
U.S. talk stays cheap
China’s release of a new map expanding its maritime area within a “10-dash line” that includes the West Philippine Sea has been condemned by the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, Brunei, and Vietnam. Conspicuously absent from the first responders was the United States which had earlier issued a brave warning that it would protect the freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. The US had said it would protect international ship passage in one of the world’s most contested waterways, where more than $3 trillion in trade passes each year. China on Monday released a new version of its infamous U-shaped dashed line that now covers about 90 percent of the South China Sea, including Taiwan which it regards as a renegade province. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague invalidated the so-called historic “nine-dash line” claim of China, but Beijing made it clear that it did not recognize the decision and insisted on bilateral agreements with other claimants to settle territorial conflicts. China holds to its position that its sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea were established throughout the long course of history, claiming that this was “duly recognized by international treaties and accords which are not to be infringed upon by any illegal awards.” China instead accused the Philippines of taking unilateral action to initiate the arbitration that “breached its bilateral agreement with China to settle relevant disputes in the South China Sea through negotiation.” It claimed that this commitment was also contained in the non-binding Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea signed by China and the ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, in 2002. Beijing, however, has continuously put a damper on concluding the Code of Conduct that ASEAN has been pushing to finally settle the conflicting claims. The presence of American forces appeared to have deterred China from making good on its “historical” claims that are continuously expanding. A delayed reaction by the US to the new Chinese propaganda offensive may prove fatal to the region. Dean Cheng, a senior advisor to the China program in the government-backed US Institute of Peace, observed that Beijing has been gambling on American willingness or lack of it to confront China’s “salami-slicing tactics against its neighbors.” Cheng recalled that in 2012, the United States persuaded the Philippines to withdraw from Scarborough Shoal “while making no effort to compel the People’s Republic of China to do the same. In effect, Washington forced Manila to cede that set of features to the PRC.” Cheng recounted how this was followed by a three-year hiatus in US freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea, which he noted was an absence “that coincided with massive Chinese construction on features it controlled.” For the United States to once again fail to counter the latest Chinese efforts “would reinforce a perception of American withdrawal,” Cheng pointed out. He warned of the possible consequences if the US continues to waffle on its position regarding China’s increasing aggressiveness. “If the United States were to not respond, its credibility as an ally would be called into question, certainly by Manila. The various efforts to renew US access to Philippine facilities under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, especially in the event of a Taiwan contingency, will certainly falter. Why should the Philippines support American efforts to support Taiwan if the United States won’t support the Philippines?” Cheng said. If recent events were the basis, the Philippines has always been made to suffer the backlash of Washington policies in the region, such as the Asian pivot of former President Barack Obama. The Philippine government was made to support the American program but was left in the lurch when the going got tough. The US still has to prove that it walks the talk on its supposed protection of the region from predatory actions. The post U.S. talk stays cheap appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Of China’s ‘One Belt One Road’
Sometime in August 2016, I attended the formal media launch of One Belt One Road, or OBOR, in Beijing, China. I thought then that OBOR, also referred to later as Belt and Road Initiative, must be one of the most, if not the most, significant programs of President Xi Jinping, as it was attended by hundreds of print and broadcast journalists from around the world, the Philippines included. OBOR was to revive the “Silk Road” economic belt of ancient China, a land trade route carrying its finest silk and other goods to its neighboring Central Asian countries and later to as far as Europe; whereas today’s Road refers to the 21st Century land and maritime silk route to Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa. The land route was launched, I think in 2013, while the maritime route was given a big push in 2017. Early on, China set up the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank as part of the OBOR mechanism. China sank in the initial capital and was joined later by other member countries. The Philippines was the last country to join AIIB when the late President Noynoy Aquino signed its Charter in the last few minutes of 31 December 2015, and this was ratified a year later during Duterte’s term. In sum, AIIB had 106 members to start. The Philippines, if we look at the records, derived from loans and infrastructure projects, was quite slow in availing of cheap money from this BRI initiative. Indonesia, Singapore, and other ASEAN and African countries had done so for various infra projects, among these railways, dams, and ports. The small loan amount we obtained was later topped up by China in terms of gifts which came in the form of bridges, schools, medical supplies, and vaccines when the Covid-19 pandemic broke out. Add to that are the much-needed arms for our armed forces to get rid of the marauding Maute ISIS terrorist group in Marawi City and additional help to rehabilitate it later. Alarmed by the inroads China was making with the BRI through the land and marine infrastructure built with the billions of dollars it loaned to countries along the silk routes, the West was quick to make a big issue of it when Sri Lanka defaulted, calling China’s loans a “debt trap.” Of course, not a few of those struggling economies defaulted as the impact of the new infrastructure on their development had yet to gain traction. However, President Xi Jinping waived the interest dues. How is it for China midway to the Road’s target completion date of 2049? The BRI has covered more than 68 countries with an estimated 65 percent of the world’s population. All told, the largesse from China resulted in the reduction of dependency on the US and it created new markets for Chinese products. The US of A is fast losing its dominance. China, once wallowing in the quagmire of poverty, is now the second-largest economy in the world and growing. Will China then go beyond firing water cannons at Philippine Coast Guard vessels? This could only be answered by another set of questions. Is China willing to cut the marine silk route that passes through or close to the West Philippine Sea? Will its land route suffice to bring its products to its export markets in the event the sea lane is altogether cut off? Will the Chinese people relish going back to poverty and isolation? The answers are a big NO. So why EDCA? Why not pursue the Philippines-China joint oil exploration in the WPS as the offer stands at a 60/40 sharing agreement in favor of the Philippines? Why build more military bases when these are veritable beckons to war which we as a policy abhor? Why not take advantage of the short maritime link between China and the Philippines to enhance our economy? The price of fuel is skyrocketing. Our peso is depreciating as in a free fall. We have solutions and yet these, too have become problems. The post Of China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Beijing ‘repeatedly’ reached out to Manila on Ayungin Shoal issue — Chinese envoy
Beijing reached out to Manila to resolve the issue of Ayungi Shoal, which is currently hosting Filipino military personnel through the grounded BRP Sierra Madre, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines Zhou Zhiyong said Monday. According to Zhou, the Chinese side “repeatedly” reached out to its counterparts on the Philippine side to resolve the matter in a “peaceful” manner. “China has repeatedly expressed its willingness to resolve differences with the Philippines through bilateral dialogues,” he said in a media briefing in Quezon City. He noted that at the end of 2021, several rounds of discussion between the Philippines and China were held to manage the “disputes” over Ayungin Shoal, which they call Ren’ai Reef. "Such discussions have led to consensus on resupply missions to the Ren'ai Reef," he said, adding that the agreement had successfully guaranteed stability and tranquility in the area for the entire previous year. “Unfortunately, beginning early this year, the Philippine Government refused to acknowledge and implement the existing consensus and started to take a series of unilateral actions,” he said. “Despite this, the Chinese side suggested earlier this year that the two sides shall discuss measures to strengthen the management of the situation of Ren’ai Reef as early as possible to ensure peace and tranquility in the relevant waters,” he added. He continued: “We also provided the Philippine side with a draft proposal. We are still waiting for the formal response from the Philippine side.” Zhou also maintained that the Philippine government had repeatedly “promised” to remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. “On May 9th 1999, the Philippine Navy tank-landing ship LT-57 intruded into Ren’ai Reef and illegally ‘grounded’, citing the excuse of dilapidation and being stranded or distressed,” he said. “The Chinese side lodged solemn representations immediately, requesting the Philippine side to tow the vessel away. The Philippine side also made an explicit commitment to do so,” he added. “The representations were put on record and the details were well documented. Regarding this, the Philippine media made extensive coverage then.” Last week, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. denied that the Philippine government made such a promise to China. “I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal,” Marcos said in a video message. He also asserted that he is rescinding any commitment should there be an agreement between the two countries to remove the vessel. "And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now,” Marcos said. ‘Construction materials’ Zhou also defended the Chinese Coast Guard’s actions during its confrontation with vessels of the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard near Ayungin Shoal last 5 August. He stressed that despite the Philippine government’s failure to honor its alleged commitment, the Chinese side has “always exerted the utmost restraint with a view to maintaining relations with the Philippines and safeguarding regional peace and stability.” “Furthermore, out of humanitarian consideration, the Chinese side has made temporary and special arrangements for the Philippine resupply missions to bring to the ‘grounded’ military vessel food and other daily necessities,” he said. “In those 24 years, the Philippine side has not encountered problems with such humanitarian resupply,” he added. He pointed out that the Philippine move to transport construction materials to the grounded BRP Sierra Madre was the cause of the 5 August incident. “Under such circumstances, the Chinese side was made to react with the necessary actions. China Coast Guard took warning law-enforcement measures and stopped the vessel carrying construction materials,” he said. “I believe you have also noticed that the other Philippine resupply vessel entered the lagoon of Ren’ai Reef and performed its humanitarian resupply mission. This showed the restraint and humanitarian spirit of the Chinese side,” he added. The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, condemned China’s actions, which included the use of water cannon and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels. The agency reiterated that the routine resupply mission of the Philippine Navy was a legitimate and regular activity of the Philippine government. Likewise, the Philippine government said China’s actions were in violation of the relevant provisions of the 1982 UNCLOS, the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, the 1972 COLREGS and the 2002 ASEAN-China DOC. The post Beijing ‘repeatedly’ reached out to Manila on Ayungin Shoal issue — Chinese envoy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl ‘promise’ to tow away BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin, not under my Pa’s term – Ejercito
Senator Joseph Victor "JV" Ejercito on Thursday asserted that it was not his father, former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada, who allegedly promised China that the Philippines would remove the BRP Sierra Madre in the Ayungin Shoal. “It was former President Joseph Estrada who ordered that BRP Sierra Madre be placed in Ayungin Shoal in 1999 as a symbol of our sovereignty and to mark our territory,” Ejercito said in a statement. “I cannot recall such a commitment from the Philippine government to remove the Sierra Madre,” he added. Over the weekend, China claimed that the Philippines had promised to tow away the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal. "The Philippine side has repeatedly made clear promises to tow away the warship illegally 'stranded' on the reef," the Chinese Foreign Ministry said. Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. In a separate statement, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines further supports Beijing's claim that the Philippines promised to tow away the vessel several times. “For instance, in November 1999, the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines met with Secretary of Foreign Affairs Domingo Siazon and Chief of the Presidential Management Staff Leonora de Jesus to make another round of representations. Many times the Philippines promised to tow away the vessel, but it has taken no action,” the embassy said. “In September 2003, upon the news that the Philippines was preparing to build facilities around that military vessel illegally run aground at Ren'ai Jiao, China lodged immediate representations. The Philippine Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs Franklin Ebdalin responded that the Philippines had no intention to construct facilities on Ren'ai Jiao and that, as a signatory to the DOC, the Philippines had no desire to and would not be the first to violate the Declaration,” it added. On Wednesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. denied that the Philippine government made such a promise to China. “I’m not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal,” Marcos said in a video message. He also asserted that he is rescinding any commitment should there be an agreement between the two countries to remove the vessel. "And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now,” Marcos said. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippines decided in 1999 to deploy the BRP Sierra Madre as a permanent station on Ayungin Shoal in response to China’s illegal occupation of Panganiban Reef in 1995. “The deployment of a Philippine military station in its own areas of jurisdiction is an inherent right of the Philippines and does not violate any laws,” it added. The agency also explained that the Philippine station on Ayungin Shoal was deployed in 1999, years ahead of the conclusion in 2002 of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. “[It] is therefore not a violation of the DOC,” it pointed out. The DFA also reiterated that China Coast Guard’s actions on 5 August which includes the use of water cannon and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels were in violation of the relevant provisions of the 1982 UNCLOS, the Award on the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration, the 1972 COLREGS, and the 2002 ASEAN-China DOC. “The 2016 Arbitral Award is based on UNCLOS and affirms UNCLOS. It is final, legal and binding,” the agency said. The post Phl ‘promise’ to tow away BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin, not under my Pa’s term – Ejercito appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nuke challenge (2)
As time passes, the country risks becoming a doormat in terms of ensuring an ample supply of electricity at an economical cost, which are the benefits being realized by its neighbors through nuclear energy. There are 445 nuclear reactors in the world that are currently in operation and another 57 are under construction. A total of 30 countries are involved in nuclear energy production, including the US, France, China, Japan and Russia, according to the National Academy of Science and Technology, which is the authority on nuclear energy in the absence of a regulator. The global capacity of nuclear power, however, has progressively decreased due to changes in Western government policies and the shutdown of reactors in Japan, Germany and the US. Still, there was an increase in global nuclear generation by 1.4 percent in 2016 largely attributed to China’s 23-percent rise. Nuclear power’s share in the total generation mix fell to 11 percent in 2015 but still corresponds to nearly a third of the world’s low-carbon electricity production. In the ASEAN, the primary demand for energy grew by 70 percent between 2000 and 2016. Three-fourths of the region’s energy production is based on fossil fuels. Vietnam is intent on expanding nuclear power generation as manifested by its agreement with Russia and Japan to build two plants. Thailand, on the other hand, has not pursued its nuclear program since 2014, while Indonesia will open to nuclear energy after 2025. The Malaysia Nuclear Power Corporation states that the country will wait until 2030 for a similar facility of its own. Recently, the House special committee on nuclear energy adopted a resolution calling on the Department of Energy to create a Nuclear Energy Division. Pangasinan Representative Mark Cojuangco, the panel chairperson, adopted House Resolution 387, which is in line with the objective of incorporating nuclear power into the energy mix. The proposed DoE division would be in charge of developing the framework for utilizing and managing nuclear energy in the country. It should also further advance the plan to utilize nuclear energy to combat the rising prices and the lack of electricity supply. In his first State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said it was “time to re-examine” the country’s strategy toward building nuclear power plants. “We must build new power plants. We must take advantage of all the best technology that is now available, especially in the area of renewable energy,” he said. An additional capacity of 43.765 megawatts or an additional 73 high-capacity power plants will be needed by 2040. Its continued dependence on imported fossil fuels makes the country vulnerable to world energy price volatilities. By comparison, the cost of generating nuclear energy is less sensitive to fuel price hikes due to the larger component contributed by its capital cost, thus making nuclear plants an important baseload power generation source as demonstrated in many countries. The government’s international commitment to bring down greenhouse gas emissions by 70 percent will bank on the nuclear energy initiative since renewable energy is not delivering the benefits as promised. Coupled with strong programs on carbonless energy production, considerable greenhouse gas reductions can expectedly be achieved. As the country heavily relies on fossil-based fuels, energy from nuclear fuel is seen as a viable solution to mitigate the effects of climate change. Global energy demand is predicted to increase by 2030 and so with the carbon emission. For several urgent reasons, economic growth and the ecological balance included, the imperative is for the DoE to defy its detractors and step up to embrace nuclear power as a source of electricity. The post Nuke challenge (2) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Tribune, Marcos share good gov’t journey (19)
In drafting the Baselines Law, which he helped craft as a member of the House of Representatives, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said in a Daily Tribune article that a new concept was introduced in which sea lanes were recognized inside the country’s boundary. He indicated that the idea had been realized and was now enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Philippines used to be considered an archipelagic state. Under the old definition, it was not clear where foreign ships could have passage. “The definition of the sea lanes is important since we determine where the country can provide security. That is our waters, you will pay for the services. It is similar to the arrangement that Singapore has with ships going to the Malacca Straits,” Marcos said. Within the archipelago, between the islands of the Philippines, there are no overlapping claims. The West Philippine Sea dispute will still have to be resolved. “We still have to talk to China. We still have to find ways to resolve the diplomatic difficulties that we are now having with China,” Marcos noted. He added that the countries in the sea dispute will have to come to a consensus, come to an agreement, and continue to negotiate. “It is not an easy process, but the Malampaya fields are the natural gas fields that lie in our baselines and within our exclusive economic zone. And that, again, is being questioned in certain cases, in certain areas, by China. And we continue to negotiate with them. We continue to find a way,” Marcos said. He simplified the problem down to its essentials. “The roadblock to that whole process has been very simple. China claims certain areas of the sea.” “The nine-dash line, it covers just about the entire West Philippine Sea. We, on the other hand, have established our baselines, which have been recognized and accredited by UNCLOS,” he stressed. “And therefore, there is a conflict. And so what happens now, especially when it comes to exploration for energy, for our energy needs, which law will apply? Because we say this is part of Philippine territory. And, therefore, Philippine law should apply. The Chinese say no, it is part of our territory. Therefore, Chinese local law should apply.” Marcos indicated that however slow it might be, claimant countries are inching toward a resolution. He predicts the resolution may have to come down to a compromise that “will just limit the application of laws, maybe to the vessels that are involved in the exploration or exploitation of whatever natural gas fields we can access.” Marcos said that “To reach a resolution, we must be constant. We must be transparent. And we must be accountable for all that we do. And I cannot see any other way to handle the problem other than that.” Just having the tensions increase in the region already affects trade, on all of the exchanges within ASEAN, within the region, with China, with the United States, and now with the aggrupation that is being formed, with Australia, with Japan, with South Korea. (To be continued) The post Tribune, Marcos share good gov’t journey (19) appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Stalled CoC tabled anew
The long-delayed negotiations for a Code of Conduct or CoC on the West Philippine Sea resume next month reviving hopes for a binding agreement that China will adhere to in defusing maritime tensions, the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed. Talks between ASEAN members and China are scheduled in Manila in August. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague issued an award that basically invalidated the nine-dash line claim of China but did not settle sovereignty issues. China refused to participate in the proceedings and said it did not recognize the ruling. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo announced the latest development following the completion of the second reading of the Single Draft CoC negotiating text. Pandemic stalled talks Constraints brought about by the pandemic prevented ASEAN and China from holding CoC negotiations over the past two years. According to Manalo, Manila anticipates adopting an “effective and substantive” agreement next month. In addition, the DFA chief advocated for stronger cooperation on several issues related to ASEAN and Beijing relations, saying that everyone involved “must ensure that gains are not undercut by threats to regional peace, security, and stability, as well as major power rivalries.” “Regarding developments in the South China Sea, we call for the effective management and peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law,” Manolo said. Both ASEAN and China reiterated through a joint statement their intent to expedite the negotiations on the long-stalled CoC. Back in November 2022, Manalo bared that at least two or three rounds of negotiations were expected to take place this year. China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei are at odds over the resource-rich South China Sea, with China claiming the disputed waterway entirely. China remained firm over its territorial claims, notwithstanding the 2016 arbitral award. Last week, the Philippines, joined by its allies, celebrated the seventh anniversary of the country’s victory in the United Nations-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration. The post Stalled CoC tabled anew appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Friends with benefits
The Philippines and Argentina reaffirmed their enduring friendship during the 5th Bilateral Consultation Meeting held in Manila earlier this year, the first in-person meeting since the start of the pandemic. DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and Asean Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and her Argentine counterpart, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Foreign Policy Claudio Javier Rozencwaig, chaired and led their respective delegations to the meeting. [caption id="attachment_155214" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Undersecretaries Lazaro and Rozencwaig.[/caption] The two sides held robust discussions on an agenda that included bilateral trade relations, regional and global developments, exchanges in the maritime sphere, as well as cooperation in the agricultural, scientific and cultural fields. Undersecretaries Lazaro and Rozencwaig underscored the importance of elevating bilateral relations by embracing a more diverse, forward-looking cooperation agenda. Included here is Argentina’s willingness to share its considerable expertise in agricultural technology and experience in nuclear energy, being the first Latin American country to develop its own commercial nuclear energy reactor in the 1970s. For its part, the Philippine side gave a broad briefing on the various incentives given to foreign companies looking to establish an investment presence in the country’s economic zones. At least two Argentine companies already have operations in the Philippines. A highlight of the BCM was the signing of two important agreements—a memorandum of understanding between the Philippine Space Agency and the Argentine National Commission on Space Activities on Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space; and the renewal of an agreement on cultural cooperation. PhilSA Director General Joel Marciano signed the MoU on behalf of the Philippines, while Lazaro initialed the exchange of notes on the renewal of the agreement on cultural cooperation, in the presence of NCCA Chair Victorino Mapa Manalo. The two sides also took the opportunity to discuss regional and global issues such as developments in the South China Sea and the Antarctic region, as well as relations between the United States and China. They spoke about the importance of the multilateral sphere and areas of possible cooperation in terms of the Philippines’ and Argentina’s respective candidatures in the UN system. Lazaro sought Argentina’s support for the Philippines’ bid for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027 to 2028. Rozencwaig touched on Argentina’s presidency of Mercosur. Other members of the Philippine delegation to the meeting included high-level representatives from the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the Department of Science and Technology, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, and the Department of Agriculture. The BCM is an important platform for discussing issues of common concern, finding ways to enhance existing cooperation, and charting the course for future engagements. This particular meeting comes at a time when both the Philippines and Argentina prepare to celebrate 75 years of formal diplomatic relations in August this year. The next BCM is expected to be held in Buenos Aires in 2025. During his visit to Manila, Rozencwaig also delivered a presentation (“Argentina and the Philippines in the Current International Context”) under the prestigious Mabini Dialogue format of the DFA-Foreign Service Institute. Professor Aries Arugay, Chair of the UP-Diliman Political Science Department, served as reactor for the lecture. The post Friends with benefits appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Feeder expands ICTSI S. China, Viet operations
Services of International Container Terminal Services Inc., through its subsidiary Subic Bay International Terminals, has reached South China and Vietnam, following the recent arrival of a new feeder service that will expand the Port of Subic’s connectivity in those countries. In a statement, ICTSI said the South China Vietnam Philippines service has made its inaugural call at the Port of Subic on 9 June with the arrival of the Danum 175, a 1,200-TEU boxship operated by Emirates Shipping Line. ESL, a new player in the Philippine shipping market, operates the SVP service together with ASEAN Sea Line and Pacific International Line. The feeder service, which makes weekly calls to Subic, caters to the growing trade requirements of South China and Vietnam. Free trade agreement highlighted The new service also highlights the free trade agreement between the Philippines and other Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership or RCEP members including Vietnam, which faces a growing demand for its agriculture and manufacturing exports. On 2 June 2023, RCEP entered into force in the Philippines. “The service offers a good opportunity to Northern and Central Luzon traders, who can leverage the increased connectivity to markets in Vietnam and China,” said Henry Dungca, SBITC terminal manager. The SVP service rotation is as follows: Shekou — Nansha — Xiamen — Manila North — Subic — Xiamen — Shekou — Nansha — Ho Chi Minh — Shekou. With the addition of the SVP service and ESL, SBITC now caters to more than a dozen weekly services and major shipping lines. In 2007, under the Subic Port Development Project, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority awarded ICTSI subsidiary Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. the concession for the New Container Terminal 1, with commercial operations commencing in 2008. While in 2011, under the Subic Port Project’s second phase, SBMA awarded ICTSI Subic Inc. the concession to operate NCT 2. The post Feeder expands ICTSI S. China, Viet operations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BOC issues guidelines to qualify for tariff rates under RCEP
The Bureau of Customs has issued guidelines for businesses that want to import or export goods under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement. The guidelines, which were issued in Customs Memorandum Order No. 12-2023, outline the conditions for obtaining preferential tariff treatment under the RCEP. In a statement over the weekend, BOC said the CMO 12-2023, signed by Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, took effect last 2 June. The memorandum outlined specific procedures that must be followed for the issuance and acceptance of the so-called “certificate of origin.” To qualify for the RCEP tariff rates, importers must obtain this certification along with a declaration of origin from exporters who have been authorized by the Philippines, as specified by the BOC. The BOC has tasked its Export Coordination Division to scrutinize all submitted certificates of origin and applications for Approved Exporter status. “ECD shall carry out verifications of the originating status of the goods upon request of the RCEP importing party or based on risk analysis criteria. Verification can be made based on documents requested from the exporter or producer or by inspections at the exporter’s or producer's premises,” the CMO read. The bureau, however, clarified that the final determination on the rate of duty shall be based on the assessment of the submitted documents from the importers. On the other hand, exporters are required to submit an application with the ECD for the issuance of a certification of origin for RCEP. The application should include the necessary supporting documents, such as an export declaration, commercial invoice, bill of landing/airway bill, and other relevant permits. “In cases where the RCEP preferential tariff rate is higher than the applied rate at the time of importation, the importer shall be allowed to apply for a refund of any excess duties and taxes paid for originating goods,” BOC said. The RCEP agreement has been implemented among all its member nations, consisting of China, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, and 10 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, which include the Philippines. The post BOC issues guidelines to qualify for tariff rates under RCEP appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Marcos: CoC needed to resolve SCS tension
INDONESIA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday evening said the ongoing conflict in the South China Sea cannot be resolved unless there is a Code of Conduct that clarifies the terms between ASEAN and China. In a media interview upon arrival here, Marcos said China's bilateral discussions with ASEAN member-states are only causing things "complicated." He said he intends to encourage his fellow leaders from Southeast Asia to seek a solution that would prompt the creation of a "new" Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. He expressed optimism that the regional group would be able to resolve the problems preventing the conclusion of the negotiations for the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. "What is the problem? What is the bottleneck? Where are we having a hard time? How can we fix that problem? That's what these meetings should be for. And I think we'll get to that point because everybody wants this to work. Everybody wants to have a Code of Conduct. So, what's getting in the way? Let's talk about it," Marcos said. He added: "I'll bring it up again because when we talked about the issues on the West Philippine Sea (or) South China Sea, tensions will not ease until we have the Code of Conduct. If we have the Code of Conduct, everybody will follow." Over the years, he said, everybody is talking to China. “I really believe that we will slowly, slowly get to the point where we can proffer and say this is what we want to look like," he said. "That (CoC in the SCS) makes things clearer. There should be no possibility of committing a mistake because the discussion should be clear.” Marcos acknowledged that the CoC negotiations in the SCS are "separate from the ASEAN Summit." "That's not something that will be done here," he said, adding that he has no plan of setting a deadline for the negotiations between the Philippines and China. Marcos said imposing a deadline is not ideal since there is already "progress" in the ongoing talks between Manila and Beijing. "The deadline is when it's done. Because if you set a deadline and it's not done, what then? It doesn't help anything. So, just keep going, keep going, keep going as hard as you can, as much as you can until you get an agreement on the fishing ground," he said. Meanwhile, he said leaders would likely address the issue of tension in the Taiwan Strait during the 42nd ASEAN Summit here. The discussion of the issue of tension in the Taiwan Strait, he said, is inevitable as ASEAN member-states have expressed grave concern. "Considering that we also agree on the concept of ASEAN centrality when it comes to regional concerns, that will be one of the most important subjects that we'll bring up,” he added. It has already been a considerable amount of time since ASEAN leaders last addressed the issue, he said. "The discussions on that, that we had goes to a year ago, a lot has changed in that time," he said. "Many changes occurred. That is why we have to really calibrate whatever it is that we are planning.” He clarified that the United States did not request the Philippines to deploy military troops in the event of a conflict arising from the increasing tensions concerning Taiwan. The Philippine government, he added, has made it explicitly clear that the American military bases in the country will not be used as staging areas for any military operations. The post Marcos: CoC needed to resolve SCS tension appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
RCEP key energy plan factor — Lotilla
The Department of Energy on Wednesday said where it concerns the Regional Economic Partnership or RCEP which Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual said is set for roll out on 2 June 2023, it would welcome the National Economic and Development Authority Board’s endorsement of an executive order implementing tariff commitments under the major trade bloc deal that would elevate the country’s energy programs. Tariff commitments under the RCEP will be implemented in the country 60 days after the government deposited the instrument of ratification with the ASEAN Secretary-General last 3 April. Pascual presented to the NEDA Board, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the executive order that would operationalize the implementation of the country’s tariff commitments under the RCEP agreement. Progressive trade liberalization With this, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said he believes that the RCEP Agreement is reflective of the country’s interest to progressively liberalize trade and create a competitive investment environment in the region for the Philippine energy sector. He said RCEP, a major trade breakthrough that entered into force on 1 January 2022 for ten original parties namely Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Japan, Laos, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, provides opportunities for expanded market access and establishes clear, stable, and predictable rules on trade in energy goods and services, including investments among participating countries. RCEP entered into force for the Republic of Korea on 1 February 2022, for Malaysia on 18 March 2022 and for Indonesia on 2 January 2023. Aggressive push Further, Lotilla said energy-related trade in services would further improve the business climate of the energy sector in the country, “supportive of the Department’s aggressive push for the exploration, development, and utilization of the country’s indigenous energy resources as we are transitioning to a low-carbon future.” Even before the country acceded to RCEP, the ASEAN and ASEAN+1 Free Trade Partners already enjoyed zero percent tariff rates on energy goods covered under Chapter 27 of the Tariff Book published by the Tariff Commission. This is preserved in the RCEP Agreement as a reaffirmation of the continued cooperation on energy trade in the region. Tariff elimination important According to Lotilla, tariff elimination is important to ensure an unhampered supply of commodities, considering the reduced production from the Malampaya reserves. Also, the zero percent tariff rates are also applicable to liquefied natural gas, with the Philippines considering this as transition fuel for power plants supporting variable renewable energy coming into play this year in the country. “Thus, RCEP would not cause any adverse impact on imported energy goods such as oil and gas,” Lotilla said. “In addition, the zero percent tariff rates on coal products were extended to Most-Favored-Nation countries in light of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, which affected the global economic situation and the steady supply of commodities in the world.” In evaluating international agreements affecting the Philippine energy sector, the DoE considers investments, energy security, and access to technologies, maintaining that the energy sector is a capital-intensive undertaking where Filipino capital may not be sufficient. Advanced technological capabilities Lotilla said developed RCEP Partner Countries have advanced technological capabilities. Services by these countries in the Philippines could enhance technology transfer to local counterpart companies and the DoE. He also stressed that international energy cooperation is vital in pursuing collaborative activities with other countries to achieve greater energy self-sufficiency, security and sustainability. “These efforts are geared towards ensuring the country has enough energy supply to power Filipino households and communities. The DoE remains at the forefront in supporting President Marcos Jr. on this undertaking. As articulated in the latest 2020-2040 Philippine Energy Plan, the DoE works steadily across borders, consistent with its thrust of fostering stronger international relations and partnerships meant to elevate the country’s energy programs and projects to attract foreign investments,” he said. “Above all, the DoE is one with the Philippine government in assuring the public that the RCEP Agreement will not adversely impact the country’s energy supply chain. At the very least, it will further boost and encourage trade and investments in the country toward affordable, reliable, resilient, secure, clean, sustainable, climate-centered, and accessible energy,” Lotilla stressed. The post RCEP key energy plan factor — Lotilla appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DND: Phl not meddling in global controversies
The Philippines will remain an advocate for peace and mutual respect as well as protect its national interest above all global controversies, Department of National Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Saturday. “The Department of National Defense takes exception to the statement of Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian that the Philippines is meddling in the internal affairs of China concerning Taiwan,” Andolong said in a statement in response to Xilian’s remarks that the United States expanded its access to Philippine military facilities under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement in order to interfere in the situation between Beijing and Taiwan. The DND also didn’t welcome Xilian’s likening the situation in Taiwan to the concerns in Mindanao. “We wish to emphasize that the issues are different from each other. The whole context and rich experience of our peace process in Mindanao allowed the participation of the international community,” he said. Andolong was referring to the long-time Bangsamoro peace process where countries like Malaysia, the European Union, Turkey, Japan, Brunei, Australia, Sweden, Norway, the UK, and Germany, and even international groups such as the UN, Japan International Cooperation Agency, Australian Aid and the like, were granted access to participate in pursuing lasting peace and development in Mindanao. They were aligned with the Philippines’ position of resolving disputes peacefully, Andolong said, as he emphasized that the Philippines observes the “One China Policy” and maintains the Asean principle of non-interference in approaching regional issues. “We reiterate that our primordial concern in Taiwan is the safety and well-being of the Filipinos living and working on the island,” he said. “Amid the tensions in the cross-straits, however, the department deems it prudent to prepare for any contingencies to ensure the safety of Filipinos overseas, especially those based in Taiwan.” Xilian advised the Philippines to oppose Taiwan if “it genuinely cares about the 150,000 overseas Filipino workers” there, instead of giving the US access to its military facilities near the Taiwan Strait under EDCA. In response, the DND underscored that the implementation of EDCA does not target any country but is in line with the Philippines’ efforts to modernize its alliance with the US. The Philippine government has repeatedly stated that EDCA is eyed to enable collective defense and peace, promote the national interest, protect national sovereignty, ensure the livelihood and welfare of Filipino fisherfolk and communities, and enhance our capability to respond to emergencies and disasters, as well as provide quick humanitarian assistance during trying times. The post DND: Phl not meddling in global controversies appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘World’s Biggest Trade Deal’ Signed by Asean, China, Other Partner Countries
The world’s largest free trade agreement is signed by fifteen nations in the Asia-Pacific region on Sunday as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) was signed during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) annual summit, bringing more imported products to every Asean country. The agreement was signed by the Asean member states comprising […].....»»