Lorenzana says entry of Chinese vessels in Philippine waters ”annoying”

August 18, 2019

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana criticized the entry of Chinese vessels in Philippine waters, ANC reported on Sunday.

Lorenzana questioned Chinese vessels not replying to Philippine Navy vessels who monitored them.

The military said five Chinese vessels refused to communicate and disclose information with the Philippine Navy while passing through Sibutu and Balabac straits.

"All they had to do is inform us that they'll be passing through. Why the secrecy?" Lorenzana told the cable TV channel.

"But the bigger question is, where are they from and why are they passing through Sibutu strait," he added.

Lorenzana said it would have been all right if the Chinese vessels were civilian ships.

"They're not really doing anything wrong like attacking us. It's just annoying because it is ( in) our waters and their warships," Lorenzana explained.

"They even turned off their identification systems. So it's just annoying," he reiterated.

Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Benjamin Madrigal said Philippines and China should discuss this to avoid conflicts in Philippine waters.

"Toprevent unintended clashes, unnecessary confrontations, it's better if there will be talks about coordination, asking permission, to ensure our territory won't be violated,"  Madrigal said in a separate TV interview. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS