China Enhances Communication W/ PH For Thorough Investigation on Boat Collision
CHINA – The Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson said China is ready to enhance their communication with the Philippines regarding the West Philippine Sea collision.
President Rodrigo Duterte finally released a statement regarding the collision in the Recto Bank (Reed Bank) in the West Philippine Sea on the Philippine Navy 121st anniversary celebration in Sangley Point.
The 74-year-old politician dismissed the issue of the sinking Pinoy fishing boat in the disputed waters.
Duterte said the incident was just “a little maritime accident” and he would not start a war against China.
“What happened in the collision is a maritime incident. Do not believe the dumb politicians who want to send the Philippine Navy. You do not send gray ships there. That is only a collision of ships,” he said.
Duterte also said he wanted to investigate the collision on the West Philippine Sea. He’s waiting to hear China’s side.
Meanwhile, the captain of the Filipino fishing boat, Jonnel Insigne, was dismayed over his statements on the issue. He hopes that the president would ask the Chinese fishermen to leave Reed Bank.
He felt that Duterte was not on their side. He’s also concerned what if the incident will happen again.
“Nalulungkot po ako dahil kasi parang balewala lang po ‘yung pagbangga sa amin, paano po kung maraming namatay sa amin?” said Insigne.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Geng Shuang, took to the social media to announce that they will be collaborating on the investigation.
On the Twitter post of the Chinese Embassy Manila, they said China will enhance their communication with the Philippines. They are also hoping to know what really happened in the Reed Bank.
“I’d like to stress that this is only an accidental collision between fishing boats at sea. It is irresponsible and counter-constructive to link this incident with China-Philippines friendship or even make political interpretations out of it.”
We can all hope that the issue in the disputed waters will be over very soon.
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