Security up for Cebu Chinese consulate

Cebu City police will help secure the Chinese consulate along Don Julio Lorente Street in the wake of the ongoing dispute between the government and the Republic of China over Scarborough Shoal in the Spratly Islands.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said some Fil-Chinese businessmen voiced fears that militant groups may stage protests in front of the consulate, which is in the Cebu Fil-Chinese Volunteeers Fire Brigade Builiding in barangay Capitol Site.

“They probably heard of plans by some militant groups to hold demonstrations in the area like what is now happing in Luzon.  I will have to talk to the city police chief on the matter,” said Rama.

Rama said the city government has good relations with the Chinese community and its businessmen.

The People’s Republic of China told its citizens last Thursday to reconsider traveling to the Philippines due to safety reasons. Rama told reporters the adverse travel advisory was unnecessary.

“I appeal for that (advisory) to be reconsidered. There are many Chinese here and they have become Filipino citizens by choice,” he said. / Doris C. Bongcac