French urban climber Alain Robert, famously known as the 'French Spiderman,' made headlines once again as he scaled the 700-feat GT International Tower in Makati City without any safety gear.
Following his daring ascent, Robert was promptly arrested by local authorities, citing concerns over public alarm and the inherent dangers posed by unauthorized climbing activities.
'French Spiderman' Claims to Support Philippines in South China Sea Dispute
Robert's ascent began at 8 a.m. on a busy Tuesday morning, drawing the attention of onlookers and halting traffic as he embarked on his daring climb up the 48-story building. Climbing with only a small bag of chalk and a pair of climbing shoes, Robert eschews safety harnesses or other climbing equipment.
Makati City police, alerted to the situation, apprehended the climber upon his descent. However, Robert's climb in Makati City was not merely a display of athleticism; it carried a political message.
Speaking to reporters, Robert expressed his intent to raise awareness about the maritime disputes between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea. Roberts claimed his climb was a show of support for the Philippines amidst the ongoing dispute.
He also argued that his action does not constitute a crime and instead offered entertainment for bystanders. The climber's act of solidarity with Manila comes at a time of heightened tensions in the South China Sea, where confrontations between Chinese and Filipino vessels have become increasingly frequent.
These incidents have stoked fears of a larger conflict in the region, with implications for international relations and maritime security.
Read Also: Philippines Accuses Chinese Coastguard of 'Dangerous Maneuvers' Leading to South China Sea Collision
Robert's History of Bold Climbs, Legal Encounters
This incident marks Robert's second climb of the GT International Tower. He previously climbed the same skyscraper in 2019, resulting in his subsequent arrest and imposition of a fine.
The 61-year-old free climber, hailing from Digoin, France, is renowned for his solo ascents of more than 150 structures worldwide for more than 25 years. He has faced similar arrests in other countries for his daring exploits and high-risk activities.
The recent arrest in the Philippines sparked controversy, with Robert alleging mistreatment by the police during the apprehension.
He claimed that his handcuffs were excessively tight and lamented being treated harshly despite his non-resistance. However, authorities refuted these claims, emphasizing the enforcement of laws without regard to the individual's international stature.
As the dust settles on this incident, it prompts reflection on the complex interplay between individual activism, national sovereignty, and international solidarity. Robert's climb, though daring and attention-grabbing, raises questions about the boundaries of acceptable protest and the responsibilities of activists in pursuing their causes.
For Robert, this climb may mark the end of his exploits in the Philippines, as he hinted at retirement and the possibility of one final surprise before the 2024 Paris Olympics.
