Spratly’s militarization not alarming – consul
The militarization efforts of China in the disputed Spratly Islands should not alarm Filipinos because both governments are working together to achieve peace in the area, a Cebu-based official of the Chinese government said. Shi Yong, consulate general of the People's Republic of China in Cebu, told The FREEMAN that the two countries still maintain good bilateral ties.
He spoke to reporters on the sidelines of the advanced Chinese New Year celebration hosted by the Chinese Consulate in Cebu at the Marco Polo Hotel on Thursday.
Shi said some media outfits are not covering the whole story about the militarization in the Spratlys, which may have sparked confusion, and to some extent, bitterness.
"Now, I think that the two governments are in good communication and they try to keep this area peaceful," he said.
Michael Lloyd Dino, presidential assistant for the Visayas, echoed the consulate official's statements saying the ties that bind the two countries are “stronger than ever.”
Presidential Assistant for the Visayas, Michael Dino said that the two countries' connection is 'stronger than ever' compared to the previous administration.
He said both Philippines and China don't want to resort to war, adding that a peaceful solution to the conflict is the priority of both parties.
Dino also said that though the Philippines won't give up on the islands, it is also ideal that both countries discover the beauty of it for mutual benefit.
"They're building something there but definitely not for war but to protect maybe the entire Philippines as well," he said.
Dino said the country considers China as its big brother and both countries never forget the value of respect to each other.
As part of the deepening this relationship, Dino said that the countries will not only promote tourism but also help each other in alleviating poverty.
"It will show you that deep relationship or deep brotherhood between China and the Philippines. Not only in trade, not only the coming of tourists but, of course, support to the less fortunate and support to the Duterte administration," he said.