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Durterte Calls for Calm over Chinese Sinking of Fishing Boat

Associated Press

   MANILA, PHILIPPINES - The Philippine president has called for calm amid
   an outcry after a Chinese vessel hit a Philippine fishing boat, which
   sank and put 22 fishermen in danger in the disputed South China Sea.

   President Rodrigo Duterte said Monday the June 9 incident at Reed Bank
   was a ``little maritime accident'' between two vessels that should be
   investigated, and that China's side should be heard.

   Duterte's reaction contrasted with that of some of his own officials,
   including the defense chief, who strongly condemned the Chinese vessel
   for sailing away as the fishing boat sank at night.

   Philippine officials said a Vietnamese fishing vessel rescued the
   Filipinos, who were later brought home by a Philippine navy ship.

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