By Prince Golez
Malacañang does not believe that China is using the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic to intensify its presence in the disputed South China Sea (SCS).
“We do not agree with that conclusion. Although the current policy is we will defend all our national territory and our sovereign rights,” said Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.
In an online forum hosted by the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines, retired Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio claimed that Beijing was taking advantage of the health crisis to pursue its territorial and maritime claims in the SCS.
Roque, however, said the government would consider Carpio’s proposal for the Philippines to participate in joint patrols with Malaysia and Vietnam, which also have conflicting claims in the area.
“Suggestion well-taken, although we do not agree po with the personal opinions of Justice Carpio on what China is doing. But the suggestion on joint patrol is well-taken, it will be considered,” the spokesman said.
Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)
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