Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque. 蜜桃工作室 file photo / DEXTER CABALZA
There was nothing wrong with the docking of a Chinese research vessel in Davao City, the fourth vessel to visit the Philippines since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed power, Malaca帽ang said聽Tuesday.
鈥淎ll ships from countries with whom the Philippines maintains friendly ties, may dock at our ports. Chinese survey ships, just like US warships, may dock at our ports,鈥� Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque.
Philippine Navy spokesperson Cdr. Jonathan Zata said聽Yuan Wang 3聽arrived in Davao City at聽8:14 p.m.聽for replenishment purposes.
Zata said there was 鈥渘othing unusual鈥� about the presence of the Chinese ship in Davao City.
鈥淥nly those afflicted with Sinophobia will find the routine incident objectionable,鈥� Roque said.
In June, a Chinese military plane made a stop in Davao City, raising concerns among the public amid China鈥檚 aggressive militarization in the disputed South China Sea.
Malaca帽ang had earlier said the plane was in Davao City for refuelling purposes only and was given clearance by authorities. /je
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