FOLLOWING the recent appearance of a large Chinese vessel near Zambales, senatorial candidate Gringo Honasan stressed the need for the Philippine government to prepare for worst-case scenarios in defending the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
During the first episode of dzBB’s “Ikaw Na Ba? The Senatorial Interviews” on Monday, Honasan questioned the government’s preparedness. “We need to know the plan to defend our democracy, our daily lives, our seas, and our fisherfolk. What is our plan?” he said in Filipino.
While Honasan doesn’t believe an invasion is imminent, he highlighted the unusual nature of the current situation. He advocated for comprehensive preparedness, even if it means being labeled alarmist. “Will they invade? I don’t think so… but the situation is far from normal. If we think it’s normal, we’re wrong. If we’re wrong for being overly cautious, then you can hang me. But if we’re right and we’re not prepared, we have a big problem,” he stated.
Honasan expressed confidence that the government has a strategy, but emphasized the need for public inclusion, not just consultation. “Of course, the government surely has a plan. But they should include us, ordinary citizens… In a worst-case scenario, where do we get water and food? If we need to arm ourselves, where do we get weapons?” he added.
Honasan also called for transparency regarding the allocation and auditing of confidential and intelligence funds (CIFs). “These are public funds from our taxes. They shouldn’t be squandered or wasted, and must be used properly,” he said. He highlighted that CIFs are not for personal use and must undergo strict processes. “Where do they come from? Are they included in the budget—the enacted General Appropriations Act? Who uses them?” he questioned. The interview underscored Honasan’s call for proactive defense strategies and greater transparency in government spending.
