10 questions for gov't on dealing with China's threat

MANILA, Philippines — A national security observer directed 10 questions to government in anticipation of China's possible actions over the West Philippine Sea dispute.

Former Interior Secretary Rafael Alunan III said  that the public is concerned over perceived "non-performance or under-performance" of local and national government to defend the country's people, economy, and environment.

He said that a holistic national security plan should be made amid China's opposition to the international arbitration filed by the Philippines in hopes to resolve the territorial row.

Related: Gov't urged to prepare for 'worst' in sea row with China

"National security is not just about defense. it includes ensuring internal security, and having enough options to protect our human, economic and ecological security from harm by enemies of the state," he said in a message exchange with Philstar.com.

Alunan said that national security also has "no room for the corrupt."

"It requires comprehension of the subject matter, organizational development, a crisis management mindset, teamwork and incessant completed staff work," Alunan added.

He urged government officials, including those in posts not related to defense, to answer the following questions:

1. What have you done (or are doing) to protect the nation from renewed and expanded economic sanctions by China?
2. What have you done (or are doing) to protect the nation from sabotage of vital infrastructure by China?
3. What have you done (or are doing) to protect the nation from subversion by China that could likely use local rebel forces as proxies to cause widespread trouble?
4. What have you done (or are doing) to systematically inform the world through all means necessary of China's conduct of irregular warfare in the West Philippine Sea?
5. Are you aware of what's going on?
6. Are you aware how serious a problem we face; How well do you know the enemy since china has been threatening us with war or punishment?
7. Are you working as a team—communicating, coordinating, completed staff work—to shield the nation from further harm by China?
8. Are you upholding your oath of public office and constitutional duty to protect the country and people?
9. Do you know what to do to secure the nation?
10. Are you there at all?

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), meanwhile, is set to submit the Philippines' memorial on March 31 to the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal based in the Hague, Netherlands.

The memorial is expected to fully address issues on Manila's arbitration case against Beijing and determine the course of the proceedings, which started on January 2013.

DFA, however, admitted that even if the Philippines wins the case, enforcement of the international court's decision would be a challenge.

"Walang enforcement power ang [arbitral] panel na ito, so kung ang China ay gustong maituring na responsible member ng international community, then they are duty-bound to respect and comply with the decision," DFA spokesman Charles Jose said in a radio interview Monday.

He also said the country is working on attaining a minimum credible defense posture specifically in boosting military capabilities and rallying for support of allies in the region such as the United States.