West Philippine Sea also tackled during Mabus visit - US Ambassador

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 18): West Philippine Sea also tackled during Mabus visit - US Ambassador

US Ambassador to the Philippines, Harry K. Thomas, on Tuesday said that West Philippine Sea was also discussed during the visit of US Navy Secretary Mabus at the Department of National Defense headquarters in Camp Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

"As (USSecretary of State) Secretary Hillary Clinton said before we want to ensure that this freedom of navigation, no economic coercion, and that these sea lanes are open," he added.

Keeping the sea lanes open is vital for everyone concerned.

"We need to adhere to the code of conduct, we discussed these things on the table," Thomas stressed.

The USambassador escorted Mabus during the latter's meeting with DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and other ranking military officials Tuesday morning.

The US official arrived Monday in the Philippines.

He added that Mabus' visit is to show the United States Navy and Marine Corps' continuing commitment to the Philippines.

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