Gov’t to continue using diplomatic approach in West PH Sea dispute

This July 20, 2011 file photo, captured through the window of a closed aircraft, shows an aerial view of Pag-asa Island, part of the disputed Spratly group of islands, in the South China Sea located off the coast of western Philippines. AP File Photo/Pool

The Philippine government would continue to use a diplomatic approach in the West Philippine Sea dispute as it protests Beijing’s installation of antiaircraft and antimissile weapons on its man-made islands in the disputed sea.

“Aggressive and provocative diplomacy will bring us nowhere so we dealt with the issue formally,” Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement on Tuesday.

Abela said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has sent a note verbale to China to protest its latest militarization of the disputed areas.

“We have issued a note verbale to China regarding the buildup of weapon systems in manmade islands in the South China Sea,” he said.

The Palace official assured, “the Philippines will continue to assert its sovereignty over disputed territory in the South China Sea while remaining consistent with the efforts of President [Rodrigo] Duterte to revitalize longstanding ties with China.”

“As always, we shall staunchly support all efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region,” he said. RAM

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