Beejay Balagbis Posted on Feb. 6, 2026 at 12:06 am
Quezon City, Philippines (February 4, 2026) — A heated dispute has erupted in Congress between Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez and Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, stemming from a disagreement over the West Philippine Sea issue and allegations of Chinese influence.
The conflict arose following a privilege speech delivered by Rep. Libanan, which Rep. Rodriguez vehemently opposed. Rodriguez called for Libanan to withdraw his statement, alleging that it favored Chinese interests in the ongoing territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea.
According to sources within Congress, the specific content of Libanan’s speech prompted Rodriguez’s strong reaction. Rodriguez believed that Libanan’s remarks could be interpreted as undermining the Philippines’ claim to its territory in the West Philippine Sea.
Libanan, however, refused to retract his statement. In a reportedly high-pitched tone, the Minority Leader defended his speech, asserting that it was made in the best interest of the Filipino people and to safeguard the country’s territory.
The public clash between the two lawmakers has exposed a deep divide within the minority bloc and raised concerns about the potential impact on the House’s ability to address critical national security issues.
Rep. Rodriguez has yet to issue a formal statement elaborating on the specific points in Libanan’s speech that he found objectionable. Similarly, Rep. Libanan has not publicly clarified the nature of his remarks and how they align with the Philippines’ national interests.
The incident has prompted calls from some members of Congress for a more open and transparent discussion on the West Philippine Sea issue, urging lawmakers to prioritize the country’s sovereignty and security. Some suggested this needs an ethics review to see if there is an issue of national interest involved. The conflict between Rodriguez and Libanan and its effect on sovereignty.
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