MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Leni Robredo has expressed support for calls to investigate and seek accountability over the sinking of a Filipino fishing boat hit by a Chinese vessel in Recto Bank in Palawan on Sunday. Earlier on Wednesday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana condemned the incident upon learning that the Chinese vessel fled, leaving the 22 Filipino fishermen “at the mercy of the elements” as their boat sank. Probe soughtSenate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to file a diplomatic protest against China. Meanwhile, Rep. Gary Alejano of Magdalo said the incident demands an investigation and diplomatic action to avoid a similar occurrence in the future. “The safety of our own people and protection of our seas should be the utmost considerations as we resolve this matter,” he said.

Source: Philippine Star June 13, 2019 15:56 UTC