Ej Lopez
The recent exchange of barbs (or is it communiqués?) between the Philippines and China has created a gap in the diplomatic relations of the two countries. The latest incident involved Chinese ships blocking the path of a Philippine ship bringing supplies to soldiers manning the hotly disputed Ayungin Shoal. This rash of events lately has created a furor of sorts as regards the violation of territorial rights both claimed by the two countries. The action of the Philippines to submit this problem to international arbitration for resolution has compounded the diplomatic row we are experiencing with the opposing country.