RELATIONS between the Philippines and China have improved since the two countries entered into a dialogue on the disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), Malacanang said on Tuesday. “A year after the ruling of the PCA (Permanent Court of Arbitration) at the Hague, the Philippines and China are now in dialogue,” Palace Spokesman Ernesto Abella told reporters. Despite this, President Rodrigo Duterte has refused to uphold the decision and opted for a diplomatic approach as he sought to enhance the Philippines’ ties with China that were soured by the conflict. Abella said the two countries agreed to meet again in the second half of 2017 in which they would discuss “mutually acceptable approaches” to resolve the maritime dispute. “It’s excellent that we are now in dialogue with the other country,” the Palace official added.

Source: Manila Times July 11, 2017 06:45 UTC