Sen. Risa Hontiveros Says China Must Shoulder Cost Of PH COVID-19 Response
CHINA – Senator Risa Hontiveros said China must shoulder the cost of Philippines’ 2019 novel coronavirus response.
The Philippine government has released billions for the 2019 novel coronavirus response. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said he would sell the government’s assets just to save all the Filipinos from the virus.
The 75-year-old chief executive said the P275 billion funds is not enough in the battle against the coronavirus. He will decide this week whether to extend the “enhanced community quarantine” beyond April 30.
The Philippines is struggling in fighting the invisible enemy. The 2019 novel coronavirus was first detected in Wuhan City, China.
Based on a report from GMA News, Senator Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday, April 22, said China must shoulder the cost of the country’s COVID-19 response. Their payment will amend for the damages they caused on the West Philippine Sea.
“China has been damaging our ecosystems for over 6 years now, which means our losses could already amount to over 200 billion pesos. This money could be used to fund our health and economic plans as we transition to a new normal,” said Hontiveros.
According to the report, the opposition senator also cited the data from UP’ Marine Science Institute. She said the destruction in the disputed sea is equivalent to P33.1 billion. Hontiveros urged the government to claim what is rightfully ours and use it to help the Pinoy fight against coronavirus.
“This money is past due and could go to government’s efforts in fighting the pandemic,” she said.
Based on the report, Sen. Risa Hontiveros also said the government should demand P50 billion from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). She said that amount of money is an alleged unpaid tax. The politician is clearly not in favor of the resumption of POGO operations in the country.
“Hindi na nga buo ang binabayad nilang tax, may korapsyon at sex trafficking pang pinapalaganap,” she said.
In a previous article, China allegedly launched new facilities in the West Philippine Sea amid the coronavirus pandemic. A maritime expert named Collin Koh said the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic could be a distraction.
What can you say about this article? Leave your comments and reactions below.
READ ALSO: Risa Hontiveros Slams Netizen Who Criticized Her SONA Dress