Chinese ships continue to move in disputed seas

President Aquino said even though China has refused to participate in the arbitration case filed by the Philippines, any decision in the case will help clarify the rival countries' rights and responsibilities in the disputed areas. The permanent court of arbitration in the Hague, Netherlands has given China until December 15 to defend its sweeping territorial claims in the South China Sea. But Beijing said it has no intention of responding to the court's ruling. Aquino, meanwhile, expressed concern that Chinese ships that appear to be suitable for reclamation work continue to move around disputed waters around Mabini Reef. ANC Dateline Philippines, June 5, 2014