Stands by defense chief’s remark on immediate departure of Chinese vessels

 April 5, 2021

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte is standing by the strong statement made by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana demanding the immediate departure of the remaining 44 Chinese vessels from the Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea, Malacañang said Monday.

Lorenzana on Saturday  told the remaining 44 Chinese vessels to leave, saying they had no more reason to take shelter there since the weather has cleared.

In response, the Chinese Embassy in Manila called Lorenzana’s remark “unprofessional”, maintaining its historical claim over the feature which is within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“Of course, the President stands by the statements of our Secretary of Defense,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in an interview over CNN Philippines. Read More

CHINA DOWNPLAYS presence of Chinese vessels in Julian Felipe Reef

MANILA – Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian has assured President Rodrigo Duterte that the Philippines need not worry over the reported presence of Chinese vessels in Julian Filipino Reef