Duterte meets Chinese envoy over spotted vessels

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte met with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian at Malacañan Palace on Thursday, March 25.

Duterte raised concerns about reported sightings of Chinese vessels near Julian Felipe Reef in the West Philippine Sea during their meeting.

Huang assured Duterte that there is no need for concern and both parties understood each other's positions.

Earlier, Duterte expressed his intention to discuss the issue with Huang through a diplomatic approach, emphasizing the Philippines' sovereign rights in its maritime domain.