Private sector not welcome

Tensions continue to rise between Manila and Beijing following the sinking of a Philippine fishing boat in the South China Sea after it was hit by a Chinese vessel.

Whether the incident was intentional or accidental remains to be determined by an investigation that is currently underway, although one thing was made clear by members of the Duterte cabinet during their meeting yesterday—no aid from the private sector, let alone from the Chinese, would be accepted. At least for now.

Straining diplomatic relations is the last thing a government wants, but Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol said members of the economic and security clusters of the Cabinet agreed to reject offers of help from members of the private sector until the investigation on the incident is through.

In a radio interview, the secretary revealed that the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce as well as a group of businessmen from Shanghai offered to help address the needs of the aggrieved Filipino fishermen.

Piñol did not specify what kind of aid these businessmen were willing to extend, but we’re pretty sure it involved serious money.

Based on estimates, the boat repairs, damaged fishing equipment, lost capital as well as the spoiled fish catch of the Filipino fishing fleet amounted to P2.2 million.

While the administration appreciates the gesture, Piñol said they “politely turned down the offers,” noting that it might not be proper at this point to accept any forms of aid.

With the current diplomatic climate between the two nations, we understand the government’s position. Any move by both parties could be interpreted in so many ways, and right now, it may not be best to ruffle any feathers.

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