Philippines hoping US, China will settle differences 'peacefully'

The Philippines is hoping that the United States and China will resolve their differences "peacefully" after Washington slapped sanctions against Chinese companies for helping Beijing assert its claims in the disputed South China Sea.

The US has said that 24 state-owned Chinese firms helped the Chinese military “construct and militarize the internationally condemned artificial islands." 

These include subsidiaries of the China Communications Construction Co. Ltd. (CCCC), the US said.

The CCCC is part of the consortium that will construct the initial phase of the Sangley Point International Airport in Cavite.

Palace spokesperson Harry Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte would consider “what is best” for the country’s Build, Build, Build infrastructure program.

“The Philippines considers the United States and China as special friends and trading partners," Roque said.

"We hope that both partners of the Philippines will be able to draw an understanding and resolve any and all issues between them amicably and peacefully,” he added.

“This outcome will help further enhance greater stability and security in the region. This is what is needed for the mutual benefit and interest of everyone in our region," Roque said.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. has said that he would recommend the termination of contracts with Chinese companies involved in the massive island-building in the South China Sea, a portion of which is being claimed by the Philippines.

However, Locsin warned that these companies may sue the Philippines if a contract has already been signed.

Aside from the Philippines and China, the other claimants to the South China Sea include Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei and Malaysia. -NB, GMA News