NSC denies provocation in Philippines-US joint patrolsThis photo shows a picture of the Philippine Air Force's FA-50 beside a B-52H Stratofortress during joint patrols on Monday. The NSC issued a response to the Chinese military's earlier statement, refuting claims that the joint patrols conducted by the Philippines and the US provoke trouble. The Philippine Air Force (PAF) reported that the aerial joint patrols on Monday included three FA-50 light fighters flying alongside a US Pacific Air Forces B-52H Stratofortress long-range strategic bomber. The NSC urged China to respect and follow international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which ruled in favor of the Philippines. “We urge China to respect the sovereign rights of the Philippines conducted within its territory consistent with its national interests and international law,” the NSC said.

Source: Philippine Star February 21, 2024 19:19 UTC