China urges Philippines not to exacerbate South China Sea situation

BEIJING, June 25 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday urged the Philippines not to exacerbate the current situation in the South China Sea.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remark at a regular press briefing while commenting on the establishment of a Philippine kindergarten on Zhongye Island in the South China Sea.

Hong said China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and its adjacent waters. The country opposes any illegal activity that may infringe on China's sovereignty, he said.

Hong said he hopes relevant countries will abide by the spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

Asked whether Chinese ships have withdrawn from Huangyan Island, Hong said tensions around the island are easing, and Chinese government ships maintain jurisdiction and vigilance over the areas around Huangyan Island.

 

China urges the Philippines to stop influencing public opinion

BEIJING, June 21 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman on Thursday urged the Philippine side to stop making remarks that will influence public opinion.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to comment on Philippine President Benigno Aquino's recent remarks on Huangyan Island.

Aquino said Wednesday that the Philippine Air Force will soon fly over Huangyan Island to check the situation in the area.

Hong said the Philippine warships' harassment of Chinese fishermen in early April singlehandedly caused the Huangyan Island incident, and the Philippines' tough, high-profile stance on the issue continued to heighten tensions after the incident.

Tensions have eased recently, and the two sides are making efforts to repair bilateral relations, he said.

China hopes the Philippine side will do more to help the development of bilateral ties and refrain from stirring public opinion, so as to safeguard the recovery of bilateral ties, he said.

 

Manila Bay Clean Up Run 2012

Manila Broadcasting Company and Star City partner mounts in this year’s edition of the Manila Bay Clean-Up Run on July 15.

The open event will feature races in the 3K, 5K, 10K, and 15K divisions for both men and women. Trophies and cash prizes will be given to the top three winners in each race division. There will also be a special award for the biggest delegation or group that submits a minimum of twenty-five (25) paying entries.