(PIA) MANILA, July 17 (PIA) – Despite the awarding of a favorable decision on the West Philippine Sea dispute, the government is still studying the decision on what should be the next steps regarding the matter.
“We are not keeping our cards close to our chest. We are really thinking through the right response but the initial statement should be some time after Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay comes back from Mongolia,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a press briefing on Friday.
Abella said that Secretary Yasay was in Mongolia representing the country in the ongoing Asia-Europe Summit.
After the Arbitral Court handed down its decision, fishermen have tried to fish in the disputed areas. But Abella said, “We are still saying that the fishermen are not prevented (on the Philippine government side). However, they are cautioned to proceed with care.”
In the same briefing, Abella said that the President is still reviewing the draft of the Executive Order on Freedom of Information before signing the said document.
Moreover on the question regarding the “narco mayors,” Abella said he will look into the matter so that it may be available in soonest possible time. (PND)