The Chinese embassy to the Philippines Wednesday urged the Philippine government to release the 48 Chinese fishermen, who were detained, claiming the 'illegal entry and fishing'.
An official with the Chinese embassy to the Philippines is quoted as saying, "we definitely demand the release of the 48 Chinese fishermen", as well as "specific explanation to their being arrested by the Philippine authorities".
Last weekend, the Pacawan police held 48 Chinese fishermen in the name of 'illegal entry and fishing'.
The Philippine Foreign Ministry has noticed the Chinese embassy there about the matter and the official in charge expressed: "we are trying to discuss and solve the matter with the Chinese Government."
(peopledaily.com.cn 09/28/2001)
