China vows to punish crewmen on vessel that left 22 Filipino fishermen near Recto Bank if Chinese

(Eagle News)–China has vowed to punish the  crewmen of a Chinese vessel that rammed a Filipino fishing boat near Recto Bank and immediately left the scene, without caring for the 22 Filipino fishermen who were in danger as the boat sank, if they were Chinese.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said this was what Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua said, following outrage over the behavior of the crewmen of the vessel believed responsible for the June 9 incident.

“If it were true that it was a Chinese fishing boat which did it, they would be duly educated and punished for their irresponsible behavior,” Zhao said.

He said the ” fishing boat issue is being thoroughly and seriously investigated.”

“We share your concerns about fishermen,” he added.