Philippines seeks China’s help in search for missing fisherman

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has requested China to help search for a Filipino fisherman who went missing off Rizal (Commodore) Reef in the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China said the Chinese side has arranged for search and rescue operations.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said China was informed by Philippine officials last Thursday afternoon about the missing fisherman.

“At the request of the Philippine side, China immediately dispatched vessels nearby to that area. The search and rescue efforts are still underway,” Geng said.

China also expressed condolences to the Philippines for the casualties and damage caused by Typhoon Ompong (Mangkhut).

“We express our deep condolences to the impact, the casualties and property loss the Philippines has sustained,” Geng said. 

He said China believes that under the leadership of President Duterte and the Philippine government, people in the affected regions of the Philippines will properly deal with this disaster, minimize life and property loss and restore normal life at an early date. 

“China will help the Philippines within its capacity as soon as possible,” he added.

The official said the Philippine government suggested a rescheduling of the visit of state councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to a later date due to circumstances brought about by Typhoon Ompong and in deference to Filipinos directly affected by the storm.