PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS

 – Philippine business groups said on Friday they deplored the harassment of the country’s military, in comments that come after a recent clash between navy personnel and the Chinese coast guard in the disputed South China Sea.

“We appeal for unity towards a non-violent resolution that respects our rights as a peace-loving nation,” the business groups said in a rare joint statement, which did not mention China by name. – Reuters