PALAWAN — Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed concern after receiving electronic messages saying “Welcome to China” while visiting the Kalayaan Island Group on Saturday, calling the incident “totally unacceptable” amid ongoing territorial tensions.

Hontiveros, accompanied by Commodore Jay Tarriela the Philippines’ claim and presence in the area.

Kalayaan Mayor Beltzasar Alindogan dismissed suggestions to relinquish the island group to ease tensions, urging more government officials to visit and witness the situation firsthand.

“No question about it, the Philippines has effective governance and ownership of the municipality of Kalayaan, especially Pag-asa Island. Atin po ito,” said Commodore Charles Merric Villanueva