China warns Philippines not to challenge ‘sovereignty, security interests’

From Update.Ph (Mar 11): China warns Philippines not to challenge ‘sovereignty, security interests’

The Chinese government has warned the Philippines not to challenge China’s sovereignty claim in West Philippine Sea.

The warning was made, Thursday, by Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei after President Benigno Aquino III confirmed that Philippines will lease five Japanese TC-90 trainer aircraft to help patrol West Philippine Sea.

“If the Philippines is meant to challenge China’s sovereignty and security interests, it will be met with firm opposition from the Chinese side,” Hong added.

The Chinese spokesperson added that China is on high alert against Japan’s action in West Philippine Sea. “We urge the Japanese side to act with prudence instead of further complicating the situation and jeopardizing regional peace and stability.”

“Nakapila na rin ang pagdating ng dalawa pang C-130 ngayong taon; pati na ang pag-arkila natin mula sa Japan ng limang TC-90 training aircraft, na tutulong naman sa ating Hukbong Dagat sa pagpapatrolya sa ating teritoryo, partikular na sa West Philippine Sea,” President Aquino said Wednesday during Philippine Air Force change-of-command ceremony.

The Japanese government previously said these aircraft will be leased at a very minimal price for purpose of legality.

http://www.update.ph/2016/03/china-warns-philippines-not-to-challenge-sovereignty-security-interests/3247