China not accept Philippines' protest: embassy

MANILA - China does not accept the so-called "protest" by the Philippines on alleged firing of water cannon at Filipino fishermen, the Chinese embassy in Manila said Tuesday.

"China has indisputable sovereignty over the South China Sea islands and adjacent waters, Huangyan Island included," said embassy spokesman Zhuang Hua, adding that Chinese government vessels are conducting regular patrols in waters within China's jurisdiction.

Zhuang made the remarks after the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs summoned Tuesday morning the charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy to "strongly protest" the efforts of China to prohibit Filipino fishermen from undertaking fishing activities in Huangyan Island, or Bajo de Masinloc called by the Philippines.

Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez said at a news briefing that a Chinese coast guard vessel fired water cannon at two out of 14 Philippine fishing boats to drive them away near Huangyan Island on January 27.

But when asked whether the Philippines has any material evidence such as photos or video to prove Chinese coast guard fired water cannon at Filipino fishermen, Hernandez said, "I don't have them now, but certainly this information are confirmed."

He said these incidents are confirmed by Filipino fishermen.

Zhuang Hua said, "We urge the Philippine side to work with the Chinese side to resolve differences through bilateral consultations and negotiations."