Malacañang on Sunday remained mum on whether the talks between President Benigno Aquino III and US President Barack Obama at the White House last weekend will finally end the Philippines-China territorial dispute at Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal.
Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte declined to comment on the matter, saying Aquino and Obama’s talks were more of “reaffirming” ties between the Philippines and the US.
“Hindi siguro ako magbibigay ng kumento riyan, hindi tayo analyst. Hayaan natin na iba ang magbigay ng opinion. Sa atin, the meeting was more of reaffirming ties between the two countries," she said on government-run dzRB radio.
Besides, she said the Philippines also has a multifaceted relationship with China.
On Saturday (Manila time), the Philippines received a reassurance from Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton of the US’ support for a rules-based solution for keeping the peace in the Asian region.
Since April, the Philippines had been locked in a standoff with China at Panatag Shoal, after Philippine forces spotted Chinese fishermen gathering marine species there.
Before Philippine forces could make arrests, they were blocked by Chinese vessels.
Valte said that for now, the Philippines will continue to take efforts to deescalate tension in the area.“The situation in Bajo de Masinloc [another name for Panatag Shoal], we stood by our commitment to continue deescalating the tension there. Sabi ni Pangulong Aquino, mukhang successful tayo sa paggawa noon," she said.
Source: GMA News