Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jinhua and Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday downplayed the supposed presence of Chinese vessels in the West Philippines Sea as disclosed by Magdalo Party-List Rep. Gary Alejano. Zhao said it was natural to see Chinese vessels in the disputed areas of the West Philippine Sea, and that China was strictly adhering to the Declaration of Conduct in the South China Sea. He said Article 5 of the DOC said China and Asean countries agreed there would be no reclamation nor rehabilitation or habitation of the uninhabitant maritime features in the area.

Manila, Beijing soft pedal on Sino vessels in WP Sea. (2017, October 6). Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.