By Katrina Gracia Consebido
Citing the Department of Foreign Affairs, Malacañang on Wednesday (April 6) said China broke national sovereignty following the reported unpermitted entry of its naval vessel in Philippine waters.
During a Palace briefing, Communications Secretary and acting Presidential Spokesperson Martin Andanar said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has already “summoned the Chinese Ambassador to lodge a diplomatic protest regarding this incident.”
“The Department of Foreign Affairs has determined that these actions violate national sovereignty and has taken appropriate diplomatic action,” Andanar said.
“The President, while engaging in diplomacy in dealing with China, will always protect our territory and uphold our national interest,” he added.
Earlier, Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana reportedly said China’s actions are unacceptable as the Chinese vessel was already inside the Sulu sea. –ag
