📷 Philippine News Agency
In what appears to be another grand display of its prominence in the disputed maritime region, the plane which had a senator and top government officials on board received messages purportedly from the Chinese Coast Guard directing “to leave the premises forming part of China.”
“Nakakagulat, nakaka-alarma at nakakagalit,” Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri told newsmen moments after landing at the Pag-asa Island for the groundbreaking of the new Philippine Navy barracks and a Super Rural Health Unit (RHU).
Surprised by its proximity, Zubiri also took a swipe at the Chinese military installation at the Subi Reef.
“Napakalapit na pala ng Subi Reef na nilagyan na nila ng military facility. Pag landing namin may verbal challenges. So sad nasa teritoryo ka ng Pilipinas tapos sinabihan ka – Umalis ka dito. China ito,” he added.
Also on the plane with Zubiri is Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro, and other national and local officials.
Interestingly, at least 20 Chinese vessels were seen surrounding the island roughly three kilometers away from its shoreland. (ANGEL F. JOSE)
