China urged to open Panatag to int'l inspection

An independent third-party entity -possibly the United Nations or a respected environment group-should inspect Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal to validate the "incontrovertible proof" presented by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) of China's massive destruction of corals and other marine resources in the area, according to National Security Council assistant director general Jonathan Malaya.

- MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

"In the face of China's repeated denials, we call on China to open up Bajo de Masinloc to international inspection and we also call on third-party inspectors from relevant United Nations bodies or respected environmental organizations to determine the true situation therein in order to protect the environment," Malaya said on Monday, referring to Panatag Shoal by its other name.