Malacañang is taking a stronger stance against China in the West Philippine Sea, telling Chinese vessels hanging around Philippine-occupied Kota and Panata islands to go away. “They should [go away]. They have no business being there,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said following reports that local authorities have monitored a number of Chinese vessels, suspected as maritime militia, hanging around Kota and Panata islands in the disputed waters. Panelo said the Philippines will not stay quiet if the country’s sovereignty is being infringed.

Go away, Palace tells Chinese vessels in PH-occupied islands. (2019, April 11). Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 4.