Palace: Only Sinophobes will find docking of China ship objectionable

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque. INQUIRER file photo / DEXTER CABALZA

There was nothing wrong with the docking of a Chinese research vessel in Davao City, the fourth vessel to visit the Philippines since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed power, Malacañang said Tuesday.

“All ships from countries with whom the Philippines maintains friendly ties, may dock at our ports. Chinese survey ships, just like US warships, may dock at our ports,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.

Philippine Navy spokesperson Cdr. Jonathan Zata said Yuan Wang 3 arrived in Davao City at 8:14 p.m. for replenishment purposes.

Zata said there was “nothing unusual” about the presence of the Chinese ship in Davao City.

“Only those afflicted with Sinophobia will find the routine incident objectionable,” Roque said.

In June, a Chinese military plane made a stop in Davao City, raising concerns among the public amid China’s aggressive militarization in the disputed South China Sea.

Malacañang had earlier said the plane was in Davao City for refuelling purposes only and was given clearance by authorities. /je

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