Manila, Philippines – China has once again accused the Philippines of being the instigator of the trouble and dangers in the South China Sea.
This was the statement of the Ministry of National Defense of China in relation to the statement of Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. that the country will also focus on external defense, including China’s unyielding aggressive actions
According to the Beijing official, Manila continues to provoke by contacting alleged external forces.
China’s accusation, contrary to what Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theressa Lazaro said that the Philippines continues to strive for a peaceful way to resolve disputes.
The country also said it wants to have a seat on the United Nations Security Council – a platform to stand in the international community and over the issues facing the region.
The Philippines initially denied China’s accusations, insisting that Manila is continuing its efforts to finalize the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, as part of peaceful negotiations.
And despite the nine-year anniversary of the award of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the West Philippine Sea, the illegal presence of Chinese ships within the exclusive economic zone continues.
Recently, the Philippine Navy spotted more than 20 Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea. —Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News