PHILIPPINES SAYS CHINA UNDERMINING REGIONAL PEACE

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines accused China on Saturday of undermining peace and stability in Asia by allegedly sending naval vessels to intimidate rival claimants in disputed sections of the South China Sea.

Manila had protested over incidents in February to May, when the Chinese navy allegedly opened fire on Filipino fishermen, intimidated a Philippine oil exploration ship, and put posts and a buoy in Philippine-claimed areas.

"The Philippines noted that these actions of Chinese vessels hamper the normal and legitimate fishing activities of the Filipino fishermen in the area and undermines the peace and stability of the region," Manila said.

"The actions of the Chinese vessels in Philippine waters are serious violations of Philippine sovereignty and maritime jurisdiction," said a statement issued by the foreign department.

Manila had also earlier queried Beijing over plans reported in Chinese state media to install an oil rig in the area.

The Chinese embassy in Manila on Thursday denied that Chinese naval vessels had intruded on Philippine territory, while reiterating Beijing's territorial sovereignty over the disputed South China Sea areas.

The Philippine foreign department statement said both governments agreed to continue dialogue on the highly sensitive issue.



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