PH will raise to China the incident on chase of Filipino vessel in WPS ‘if proven true’

FILE – In this March 29, 2014, file photo, China Coast Guard vessel attempts to block a Philippine government vessel as the latter tries to enter the China Second Thomas Disputed Shoals, locally known as Ayungin Shoal. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez, File)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday said it will raise the reported pursuit of armed Chinese ships on a Filipino vessel carrying a TV crew in the West Philippine Sea “if proven to be true.”

“Philippine authorities are looking into reports of Chinese vessels chasing after a Philippine vessel where a television crew was aboard in the West Philippine Sea,” the DFA said in a statement.

“If proven to be true, the Department of Foreign Affairs will raise the matter with the Chinese government,” it added.

The Philippine military has already launched an investigation on the incident.

The DFA also reminded the public to coordinate with authorities if they plan to visit the Kalayaan Island Group in the West Philippine Sea.

“In the meantime, the Department is thankful that the crew and the Filipino vessel are safe,” it said.

Malacañang has deferred the matter to the DFA and the Department of National Defense.

EDV