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[irishintelligence]

Sotto said discussions on the matter are now at the two “presidents’ level.”


MANILA, Philippines – Citing high-level inter-government talks, Senate President Vicente Sotto III said China has recognized that the West Philippine Sea belongs to Manila amid reports Beijing is operating 3 weather stations in the area.

Sotto said he was privy to the discussions held between Philippine and Chinese officials held on October 29. He did not say who were present, but at the time Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was in Davao City, the hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“I am not too sure if I am at liberty to inform you pero siguro parang general statement muna (but maybe just a general statement). I am privy to dialogue and talks within the executive department and slowly, we are realizing the fact that they do agree that those areas are ours,” Sotto said in a weekly forum in Manila.

He said it was established in the meeting that any actions in the disputed islands must be made known to the Philippine government. And should there be explorations in the area, Sotto said the 60-40 scheme, in favor of the Philippines, must be followed.