GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines – US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson said that China’s 10-dash line, is a mere “cartoon.”

It lacks factual representation of international maritime laws, the US ambassador said in a media interview with reporters on Thursday, September 12, on the sidelines of the 33rd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon) in this city.

“I can certainly say that the nine-dash line, or now 10-dash line, that China has drawn is a cartoon,” Carlson said.

Commenting on the latest standoff between the Philippines and China in Escoda Shoal (Sabina Shoal) in the West Philippine Sea, the US envoy said the Philippines’ actions is not just about protecting lives or defending national security, but also involves sustaining the livelihood of thousands of fisherfolk and their families.

“That is about livelihood, that is about feeding people, about families,” she pointed out.

Escoda Shoal is a low-tide elevation located just 75 nautical miles away from the Philippines. China claims the feature, even if it is well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Carlson noted that with the shoal’s proximity to the coast of Palawan, there is no doubt that it is within the Philippines’ EEZ.

She reiterated earlier pronouncements that the US stands with its ally the Philippines in terms of upholding international law, she said.

Mindanao development

In her message of support during the formal opening of the 33rd Minbizcon on Thursday, Carlson told around 700 delegates from various Mindanao business chambers that “Mindanao’s development is consequential,  with ramifications for the Philippines, the region, and beyond.”  

She said the US recognizes the importance of initiatives that promote regional connectivity which play a crucial role in integrating Mindanao into the broader ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) economic community,” Carlson said.

Carlson said the US is working with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) and other partners to help improve intermodal logistics, which are key to boosting trade and investment in Mindanao, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. 

“Our programs also help ensure that the benefits of economic growth are felt across the region, including the more remote and underserved areas,” she said.

As Mindanao continues to grow and prosper, she said the US is committed to supporting partnerships with local governments and the private sector by providing technical expertise, fostering innovation, and helping create the conditions necessary for sustainable economic development.

The envoy cited several areas of “mutual endeavor that are pivotal in our quest to drive sustainable economic growth and integrate Mindanao into the broader regional and national economy.” 

She said they are into boosting local economic development by helping streamline business processes and strengthen public-private partnerships.

Carlson hailed the Minbizcon delegates for their shared commitment to advancing resilient and inclusive economic growth, pointing out that Mindanao is a region with immense economic potential.

Minbizcon is an annual gathering of leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to collaborate and explore the future of business in Mindanao.

The event provides a unique opportunity to network with key players in various industries across Mindanao, discover emerging business trends and opportunities, as well as engage in insightful discussions about sustainable growth and development initiatives in Mindanao. – Rappler.com