CHINESE Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian confirmed on Wednesday, May 17, 2023 that five Filipinos were missing along with 39 other sailors in a sea mishap involving a Chinese fishing vessel.

In a statement, Huang said Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered the immediate activation of emergency response mechanisms to verify the situation, send more rescue forces and make necessary coordination for international maritime search and rescue assistance for Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028 which reportedly capsized in the Indian Ocean on Tuesday, May 16.

He said two Chinese vessels, the Lu Peng Yuan Yu 108 and COSCO-registered Yuan Fu Hai, have arrived near the last known location of the ill-fated Chinese fishing vessel and began investigations and search and rescue operations.

“The Chinese Embassy also rushed in close coordination with the Philippines' DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs), PCG (Philippine Coast Guard), and other concerned agencies regarding the maritime incident,” said Huang.

“We pray for the safety of all the sailors as we continue with the operations and coordination,” he added.

The DFA is yet to comment on the matter. (SunStar Philippines)