The Philippine government should now prepare to file legal proceedings against China in an international court, following the “dangerous and provocative actions” of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force against a Philippine Air Force plane over Bajo de Masinloc, 120 nautical miles off the coast of Zambales.

In a statement, Senate Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said it is time for China “to be held accountable for its belligerence.”

“I call on the executive branch to begin filing a new round of cases at an international court,” Hontiveros said.

“China is not only holding our waters hostage, they have also begun to invade our skies. These are clear and unacceptable violations of international law.”