Here’s a quick roundup of today’s top stories:
PH economic growth fell short of 2024 target, market expectations
The Philippine economy grew at an average of 5.6 percent in 2024, a tad faster than the 5.5 percent growth recorded in 2023.
But that pace of expansion fell short of the Marcos administration’s growth target of 6 to 6.5 percent for last year.
PCG conducts hourly radio challenge vs CCG vessel off Zambales
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel monitoring a Chinese ship off Zambales, issued an hourly radio challenge against the latter to assert its illegal operation in the area.
PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said BRP Teresa Magbanua is “actively and resolutely addressing the unlawful presence of the China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3304 within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).”
Beijing notified but not asked to approve resupply missions
Contrary to the claim of a Chinese official, the Philippines never sought permission from Beijing for its resupply missions at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, an official of the National Security Council (NSC) said on Wednesday.
“We do not get their permission. We do not allow them to board our ships to do inspection, even visual inspection,” Jonathan Malaya, assistant director general and NSC spokesperson, told reporters in Quezon City.