Philippine fishermen and environmental groups voice opposition to US military bases in the Philippines, warning risks and poxy wars, at a forum on July 30, 2024. Photo: Courtesy of PANGISDA Pilipinas

Philippine fishermen and environmental groups gathered in Quezon City for a forum to express their concerns about the risks of the Philippines becoming embroiled in a "proxy war" as a result of US military bases in the country. The gathering coincided with reports of joint maritime exercises between the Philippines and US navies in the South China Sea on Wednesday. The participants voiced their strong opposition to this potential escalation of tensions.

These groups condemned the high risks associated with increased militarization, emphasizing the need to focus on "Jobs, Not Wars" and peaceful dialogues to resolve tensions in the South China Sea. They oppose "aggression and wars" in the Philippines and the ASEAN region, saying that territorial tensions should not be used as an excuse for conflict.

The US and the Philippines began joint maritime activities in November to enhance their militaries' ability to operate in tandem amid strained tensions with China in the South China Sea. Experts say this move undoubtedly further militarizes the South China Sea and escalates the risk of conflicts.

During the forum, participants also highlighted the urgent need for the Philippine government to address environmental hazards, citing the recent oil tanker accident and subsequent oil spill in Manila Bay as a critical issue. The spill has adversely affected coastal areas, including Bataan, Bulacan and other nearby regions, posing significant threats to the livelihoods of local fishermen and the environment, according to the organizers.

Fishermen are calling on the government to prioritize solving domestic fishing livelihood and safety issues, rather than focusing on conflicts involving the intervention of external forces.

Pablo Rosales, National Chairperson of PANGISDA Pilipinas (National Federation of Small Fisherfolk), emphasized the disastrous impact of the oil spill on small fisherfolk, criticizing the government's negligence and demanding accountability from both the government and corporations involved.

Edlyn Rosales of PANGISDA Bataan stressed the immediate need for comprehensive environmental protection measures, highlighting the importance of sustainable jobs and a clean environment over wars that destroy resources and futures.

Efren Dominico, representing the United Federation of Fisherfolk in Lamao, Aurora Province of the Philippines, pointed out the long-term ecological damage caused by such spills and the slow response in mitigating these hazards. He asserted that the presence of military bases only heightens the risk of environmental disasters.

The forum also featured some regional leaders who reiterated their opposition to wars and aggression, advocating for a peaceful resolution to disputes in the South China Sea. They condemned the military presence and its implications on national security and local stability.

Veronica Cabe of NFBM (Nuclear Free Bataan Movement) highlighted the broader implications of militarization on national security and environmental sustainability, emphasizing the need to resist becoming pawns in a proxy war.

The groups urged the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens over geopolitical interests, advocating for transparency and accountability in handling environmental and national security issues.