MANILA — Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela on Tuesday criticized Senator Rodante Marcoleta over his controversial remarks regarding the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the West Philippine Sea.

In an interview with News5 today, February 10, Tarriela expressed strong disapproval of the senator’s comments, emphasizing the sacrifices of Filipino servicemen and the historical significance of the disputed territory.

“Kung ikaw, kamag-anak mo, magulang mo, lolo mo, nag-risk ng kaniyang panahon, buhay, at kalusugan dito sa laban natin sa West Philippine Sea, and now we’re going to hear somebody saying na i-give up na lang natin ito—para saan ang tinindigan ng mga ninuno natin?” Tarriela explained.

The issue stemmed from Marcoleta’s statement during a Commission on Appointments hearing on February 4, in which he reportedly said: “We will offer our lives for something that is not even in our EEZ. Ang gawin natin para madali, i-give up natin ang KIG (Kalayaan Island Group).”

The statement provoked widespread outrage and condemnation, with critics denouncing it as a reckless disregard for national sovereignty.

Marcoleta later backpedaled on his remarks on February 9, saying he did not intend to suggest surrendering the KIG. He explained: “Hindi ko po sinasabi na i-give up natin. I am only trying to reinforce the argument na hindi at imposible nating gawin sapagkat atin ‘yung teritoryo pero sa tubig, hindi po natin pwedeng itagos ‘yung mga baselines dahil magkakasala po tayo at lalabag po tayo sa UNCLOS mismo.”

But Marcoleta’s reasoning faced mounting criticism from former and current government officials and segments of society, who pointed to his inconsistency.

📷 Philippine News Agency