Malacañang has assured Beijing of Manila’s commitment to enhance bilateral ties after the latter raised concern over President Rodrigo Duterte’s order for the military to “occupy” islands in the South China Sea. “The President’s position on the matter is clear and has nothing to do with politics. His instructions cover only existing Philippine facilities and Philippine territory,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said Saturday. “The Philippines assures all claimant countries that we remain committed to improving and enhancing our relations with our neighbors and partners in the region,” he said.

Bencito, J. P., & Fabunan, S. S. (2017, April 9). No need to worry, Palace tells China. Manila Standard, p. A2.