MANILA – Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. clarified that his remarks regarding the resignation of public officials were based on compliance with existing laws and regulations concerning the West Philippine Sea, rejecting interpretations that framed his statements as being rooted solely in personal belief.

In a statement, Teodoro said a public official’s resignation should only be called for when there is a failure to uphold laws or regulations, particularly those issued pursuant to existing legislation.

“One cannot ask a public official to resign just because of a belief.

There must be a violation of a law or a regulation. I was careful in using as basis A.O. 29 series of 2012, concerning the West Philippine Sea. Since the A.O. was issued in pursuance of and under law, it forms part of the law of the land.”

Teodoro said public officials are obligated to uphold laws, rules, and regulations that are issued in accordance with the law.

“Public officials are sworn to obey and uphold all laws, rules, and regulations issued in accordance with law.

If a public official cannot uphold these, then the duty is clear!

Uphold or file an action to declare the rule or law unconstitutional.

Until that time there is no option but to uphold the law.

If a public official cannot conform to these requisites then the only option is to resign.”

The defense chief also cited the Philippines’ filing of its extended continental shelf before the United Nations, saying it includes waters surrounding Bajo de Masinloc and areas within Panatag Shoal that form part of the West Philippine Sea under Administrative Order No. 29.

“This is even more important now that the Philippines, under the President through the DFA, has filed our historic extended continental shelf to include waters surrounding Bajo de Masinloc.

And so in Panatag Shoal etc. These areas form part of the West Philippine Sea under A.O. 29.

Are they not supporting this? If not, then what is their sworn duty?”

Teodoro said those opposing the country’s move before the United Nations should make their position clear.

“Are they opposing this move before the UN? If they do, they must state this clearly and by doing so they will have left a mark in our history and they will be remembered by future generations, our people, soldiers, and most especially they will have never been forgotten in Masinloc, Zambales, where the fishermen are most affected by China’s illegal and fabulist activities call home.

How will they be remembered? I guess the answer is obvious.”

Teodoro also criticized what he described as misleading reporting of his earlier remarks, urging the public not to rely solely on headlines.

“Fake news once again has reared its ugly head.

Before I lay down any statement I carefully lay down my premises.

Hence, please do not rely on headlines which attempt to frame my statements. To do so would be an injustice to our people and to patriotic Filipinos.

This clarification is clear, it just needs to be read and understood. If some, despite this, still persist in distorting my message then that is on them and not me.

Mabhay ang Pilipinas!

‘Di tayo pasisiil.”