MANILA: The Philippines has asked China to clarify reports Beijing ordered its navy to board and interdict foreign ships entering its claimed territories in the South China Sea, an official said Monday.
The foreign department said a diplomatic note seeking clarifications was sent on Saturday following reports appearing in the Chinese media, department spokesman Raul Hernandez told reporters.
"We would like China to immediately clarify its reported plans to interdict ships that enter what it considers its territory in the South China Sea," said the note, which the department posted on its website.
"If media reports are accurate, this planned action by China is... a direct threat to the entire international community.
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