The Philippine government is inclined to “tolerate” the fishing of Chinese vessels in the country’s territorial waters and does not consider such gesture as treason. President Duterte has invoked the country’s friendly relations with China in allowing the Asian neighbor to fish in the country’s exclusive economic zone, including the West Philippine Sea, according to Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo. “I don’t think China would do that. Why? Because we’re friends,” Duterte said in an interview with reporters at a film premiere at SM Megamall in Ortigas business district last Monday night, when asked if the country will prevent China from fishing in local territorial waters.

Kabiling, G. D. (2019, June 26). PH exclusive economic zone open to Chinses fishermen - Duterte. Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 9.