Philippines takes non-confrontational stand vs China in sea feud
21 May 2018 5:32 PM GMT
Manila: The Philippine government is taking "appropriate diplomatic action" to protect its claims in the South China Sea but did not elaborate or name China in a non-confrontational policy to avoid problems.
China reportedly landed long-range bombers on one of its occupied islands for the first time in its latest military action in the disputed seas, setting off international concern. A Pentagon spokesman said late last week China's "militarsation" of disputed areas destabilises the region.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs reiterated Monday the government is committed to protecting "every single inch" of its territory and areas where it has sovereign rights.
But it added that its responses to certain developments might not be publicized.
"While appropriate language, whether expressions of condemnation or concern, over certain developments are clearly conveyed through diplomatic channels, it is not our policy to publicize every action taken by the Philippine government whenever there are reported developments taking place," the department said.
"Moving forward, we are taking a different approach to avoid any drawbacks and challenges," the statement added.
After rising to power nearly two years ago, President Rodrigo Duterte took steps to thaw the Philippines' frosty ties with China over the sea disputes in an effort to secure Chinese infrastructure funds and investment while often criticizing security policies of the United States, his country's treaty ally.
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