Philippine defense spokesman apologizes to Chinese government

APD NEWS

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By APD Writer Melo M. Acuna

MANILA, Oct.9 (APD) – Director Arsenio R. Andolong of the Philippines’ Department of National Defense apologized to the Chinese government through Ambassador Zhao Jianhua over what was described as “grevious but purely unintentional mistake” after a wrong logo on a banner to represent the PRC’s Ministry of National Defense.

In a statement released today, the Public Affairs Service which Mr. Andolong heads said they have issued an official apology to the Chinese government.

“We are fully cognizant and grateful for the support that the government of the People’s Republic of China has been providing us and we reiterate that the DND and the AFP will strictly adhere to the One China policy as espoused by the Philippine Government,” Andolong said in a statement.

He concluded it is the Department’s sincere hope that “this very unfortunate incident will not affect the cooperative and friendly relations between our two countries which has grown warmer over the past year.”

The Philippine Department of National Defense reportedly used Taiwan symbol during the handover ceremony when Ambassador Zhao turned-over assault weapons, ammunition and field lenses last week.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)