Senator Hontiveros Visits Thitu Island, Urges Stronger Defense Against China
Philippine Senator Risa Hontiveros visited Thitu Island (Pag-asa) in the South China Sea on February 21, 2026. During her visit, Senator Hontiveros advocated for deepened defense relationships and continuous opposition to China's claims in the disputed waterway.
Thitu Island: A Filipino Outpost in Disputed Waters
Thitu Island, situated approximately 450 kilometers west of Palawan, is home to about 400 Filipino residents, mostly fishers and their families. It is part of the Spratly island chain, which China claims these residents occupy illegally.
Hontiveros stated her belief that Filipinos are not prepared to surrender any portion of the West Philippine Sea, Manila's preferred term for the waters off its western seaboard. She called for ongoing diplomatic and political pushback against foreign claims.
Filipinos are not prepared to surrender any portion of the West Philippine Sea.
Strengthening Alliances and Regional Security
The senator expressed support for the strengthened treaty relationship between the Philippines and the United States. She also indicated a desire to involve more "like-minded nations" in security and defense relations, including through joint patrols.
Chinese navy and coast guard vessels were observed patrolling near Thitu Island during her visit.
Island Development and Taiwan Concerns
Hontiveros provided essential goods and medical services to assist the island's development.
She also addressed concerns about a potential US-China conflict over Taiwan, highlighting the proximity of the Philippines' Batanes chain to the self-ruled island and the presence of Filipino workers there. The senator advocated for a peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region.
Future Leadership and China Policy
Regarding future political leadership, Hontiveros, who expressed openness to a presidential run, suggested that Vice President Sara Duterte, if elected president, might adopt a stance towards China similar to that of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Critics have noted that former President Duterte's conciliatory approach with China resulted in few significant concessions.