DFA: “The continuing presence of Chinese vessels around the Reef is a source of regional tension.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has summoned Huang Xilian, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, due to the unresolved issue of the influx of Chinese vessels at the Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea.
According to a statement released by the agency, DFA Acting Undersecretary Elizabeth Buensuceso told Amb. Huang that Julian Felipe Reef is part of the Philippine exclusive economic zone,
“The continuing presence of Chinese vessels around the Reef is a source of regional tension,” the DFA said.
Buensuceso also stressed that in the 2016 arbitral ruling, China’s stance on their alleged “historic rights” in the South China Sea was proven without weight when it comes to the law.
The DFA also noted the Chinese embassy’s dealings with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and reminded foreigners to talk with Philippine officials with courtesy.
“[T]he DFA reiterated the firm demand of the Philippines that China ensure the immediate departure of all its vessels from the area of Julian Felipe Reef and other maritime zones of the Philippines,” the agency said.
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