ROBINSON NIÑAL/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTOPresident Rodrigo Duterte and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga have agreed to work together to maintain security and stability in the disputed South China Sea. Duterte stressed the need for cooperation in promoting domain awareness, maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight, and maritime connectivity and commerce," the Palace said in a statement. Roque made the statement in reaction to the call of former senator Rodolfo Biazon to convene the National Security Council (NSC) to clarify the government's stand on the disputed waters. Last Monday, Duterte invited former senator Juan Ponce Enrile to Malacañang to shed light on issues concerning the West Philippine Sea. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana believes operational matters concerning the West Philippine Sea can still be discussed by military units.

Source: Manila Times May 20, 2021 17:21 UTC