Chinese army general calls for 'decisive action' vs PH
by Jojo Malig, ABS-CBNnews.com
Posted at 04/28/2012 4:20 AM | Updated as of 04/28/2012 8:14 AM

MANILA, Philippines - China should launch "decisive action" against the Philippines to reinforce Beijing's claim on the disputed Scarborough Shoal, a hardline Chinese army general said Friday.

People's Liberation Army (PLA) Major General Luo Yuan, in a commentary published by state-owned website china.org.cn, said China has not abandoned the idea of "war at all costs" to protect its interests.

"'Peaceful rise and 'period of strategic opportunity' preclude war," said Luo, who has been described by Western media as "hawkish" for his ultranationalist views.

"It is incorrect to assume that China will completely rule out military action in any event during this 'period of strategic opportunity,'" he said, referring to Beijing's dispute with Manila

From China Daily April 28
Voices

@Hongguoquan Writer and director at the Military Channnel of China Central Television

Instead of withdrawing vessels, China should strengthen its sovereignty over Huangyan Island by hoisting the national flag, establishing the monument of sovereignty, building military bases, or at least setting up a fishery base on the island. Huangyan Island should be viewed as a demonstration area for "breaking the deadlock" of the South China Sea. Since the Philippines raised the Huangyan Island issue, we have to show the world how we will safeguard our national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

@Caoxinglong Former ambassador to Portugal

It is understandable that people are a little anxious about Huangyan Island. But we can rest assured that our government will deal with it. First, China is a big country, so only by adopting the underdog attitude and striking only after the enemy has struck can we have the initiative and win worldwide sympathy. Second, the best policy is to subdue the enemy without fighting. We should try to avoid the use of force to secure our territory. Necessary deterrent with diplomatic and economic means will be enough.

@Beijingluge International affairs researcher with Tsinghua University

Unlike the disputed islands and reefs, Huangyan Island is an inherent part of China's territory, and China's sovereignty over the island has full legal and actual basis. The core is to strengthen the consciousness of sovereignty. While maintaining a low government profile, China should mobilize a high-profile public opinion campaign to make its voice heard and keep the international society from being misled.

@Fenghuangshipin Official Weibo account of v.ifeng.com

Major General Luo Yuan indicates that China not only should "not withdraw fire", but should also take this opportunity to strengthen its sovereignty over Huangyan Island, hoist the national flag on it, establish the sovereignty monument and build a military base. We should show the world how we safeguard our national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The pursuit of a peaceful rise doesn't mean renunciation of war. China should eliminate the mistaken belief that China won't resort to the use of force to ensure the "strategic opportunity period".
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/opinion/2012-04/27/content_15164112.htm