DESPITE the assertion of Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jinhua on the upgrade of structure in the West Philippine Sea as illegal, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that they will still push through with the improvements in Pag-asa Island.
Lorenzana told reporters on Monday, May 1, during the visit of President Rodrigo Duterte at one of the three Chinese vessels docked at Sasa Wharf, Davao City that they will continue with the upgrade of the existing facilities in the disputed sea.
He cited that as far as the international court ruling is concerned, they have already invalidated the nine-dash line claim of the Chinese government.
"Itutuloy natin yong structure sa Pag-asa Island. We are going to continue our runway and other structure natin doon," he said.
These developments came after Duterte directed the military to occupy the inhabited island and reefs in the country to assert sovereignty over its territory.
Amid apprehensions of the public about the closeness of the country to China, Lorenzana came to the defense that the recent developments was part of the diplomatic way of dealing territorial disputes to enhance deeper understanding between two countries and spur cooperation.
"I think kailangan natin silang kausapin para malaman natin kung ano ang sinasaloob nila at para maka develop tayong mutual understanding kung paano natin iresolve ang dispute sa South China Sea," he said.
Lorenzana, meanwhile, said that the President has studied on acquiring its own state-of-the-art naval warship as part of the improving the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to defend maritime rights.
He said that by the end of the term of Duterte, the Philippine Navy will have similar vessel like the Chinese frigate. They are eyeing to build it in the country particularly in Olongapo where ships are being and weapons are being made for import to other countries.