Foreign Affairs secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. reiterated that no agreement has been forged between the Philippines and China over Panatag Shoal (Scarborough Shoal) in the South China Sea. In an interview with GMA News' JP Soriano, Yasay said the move could be seen as part of a renewed trust-building between the two countries. "There is no agreement that has been arrived at with China insofar as these ships leaving or our fishermen having access to Scarborough but I would imagine as part of our quiet diplomacy trying to build mutual trust and confidence with two countries, these have been made possible," Yasay said.

'No need to seek China's consent': Filipino boats resume fishing in Panatag Shoal. (2016, November 4). Panay News, p. 7.