Philippines relies on foreign ships for trade, maritime expert tells PaneloMANILA, Philippines (Updated 1:37 p.m.) — Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo should stop speaking on matters of foreign policy, a maritime law expert said. "Even if it is Greek vessel, it should be our concern, because (the Philippines) relies on foreign-flagged vessels for international trade," Batongbacal tweeted Monday morning. According to Batongbacal , only 101 ships are registered with the Philippine flag and foreign ships carry out the country's international trade. "This is like saying (the Philippines) is not concerned that (China) exercises jurisdiction over Scarborough against any other State," Batongbacal said. The maritime law expert stressed that freedom of the seas, including seamless navigation through all maritime zones, is a concern for all maritime trading nations, including the Philippines.

Source: Philippine Star November 04, 2019 04:40 UTC