Philippines, US tackle West PH Sea...

changed views on recent developments in the West Philippine Sea/ South China Sea, as well as other bilateral and global issues of mutual concern, with an eye towards identifying concrete measures that the two countries can pursue jointly, and together with other like-minded partners,” it added.

In recent weeks, there were sev- eral reports of China’s harassment and intrusion in the West Philippine Sea, including the directing of a military-grade laser that temporarily blinded Filipino crew members.

The meeting, the DFA said, was also an avenue to preview plans for the upcoming 2+2 Ministerial Meeting next month which will be hosted by the US.