MANILA, Philippines — The report that a Chinese vessel harassed a Filipino-crewed commercial ship near Scarborough or Panatag Shoal in the West Philippine Sea does not concern the country, Malacañang said. The Chinese warship then moved toward the Filipino-crewed tanker in an attempt to block its passage. In a radio call with the Chinese ship, which introduced itself as the Chinese Coast Guard, Ebora insisted on innocent passage. The Filipino-crewed tanker was on its way to China from Thailand when it received a call from the Chinese warship. Lorenzana, however, called on China to respect international maritime laws "if it wants to earn the respect of the international community."

Source: Philippine Star November 04, 2019 02:37 UTC