Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 4) — Former Senator Richard Gordon has lauded the direction President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is taking in terms of asserting the country’s rights over the West Philippine Sea, while also calling on the chief executive to be careful when appointing people to government positions.
“I’m relieved, especially about the West Philippine Sea. There is more assertion there, and there is more cooperation from our allies,” Gordon told CNN Philippines’ The Source on Tuesday.
The former lawmaker noted that it is beneficial for the Philippines to have stronger ties with its allies since it cannot deal with China alone.
“China is a big bully…their leaders are bullies,” Gordon said. “The policy makers in China have a policy of saying ‘We’re the boss here. We’ re the big guy in the block. You don’t go into my neighborhood.’ That’s not their neighborhood and I’m glad President Macros has asserted that .\”
During Marcos’ first year in power, he strengthened the country’s relationship with its long-time ally, the United States, which was opposite to what his predecessor did.
He earlier said that it is natural for the Philippines to seek assistance from Washington amid the growing tensions in the disputed waters.
Aside from conducting military exercises with troops from the US and other allies, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement was also expanded during the first year of the Marcos administration.
READ: Navigating power rivalry: PH foreign policy during Marcos’ first year
Gordon also noted efforts to improve the Philippine Coast Guard.
Meanwhile, he also urged Marcos not to waste his political capital on bad appointments.
“The era of bad mouthing, the era of foul mouthed, sewer mouthed people should be out of the parade especially when they treat women like that,\” Gordon said. \”I don’t think that has any place especially when the Supreme Court, itself, has disbarred them.\”
He was referring to newly appointed antipoverty czar Larry Gadon who was disbarred for his “abusive” remarks against a journalist Raissa Robles.
Gordon said it is not an excuse for Gadon to say that his case will not affect his appointment because he is no longer practicing law.
“That’s a mistake that can be cured right away,” Gordon said.
READ: Gadon says he’s fit to be anti-poverty czar; denies claim of ‘political accommodation’
