Palace ‘concerned’ over Chinese warship off Panataghome/News/Top Stories/Palace ‘concerned’ over Chinese warship off PanatagMalacañang is “concerned” over the reported presence of a Chinese warship near Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, a traditional Filipino fishing ground off the coast of Zambales. Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo made the admission after the Philippine Coast Guard on Monday reported that it had spotted a Chinese warship among the vessels circling the disputed area. “Siyempre (Of course), we are always concerned on any intrusion to our sovereignty,” Panelo told reporters. Panatag Shoal, also known locally as Bajo de Masinloc, is located around 120 nautical miles west of Luzon — well-within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. He has become more critical since, recently warning of “suicide attacks” after Chinese vessels also surrounded Philippine-held Pag-asa (Thitu) Island.

Source: Manila Times June 11, 2019 16:33 UTC