Reported about 1 year ago
Following bilateral talks in Manila on the South China Sea issue, Philippine President Duterte ordered to ease tensions and announced the withdrawal of US intermediate-range missile systems deployed in the northern part of Luzon Island by September this year, emphasizing that these weapons are only used for exercises. This decision comes after Chinese coast guard vessels harassed Philippine and Taiwan ships, as well as tracking a Japanese fishing boat near the disputed Senkaku Islands for 42 hours. The conflict escalated as Chinese coast guard forces assaulted Philippine vessels at Ren'ai Reef, resulting in injuries and property damage, leading the Philippines to consider seeking compensation from China. Despite China defending its actions as lawful law enforcement measures, the Philippines is seeking to resolve the tensions through dialogue and negotiation.
Source: YAHOO