Philippines airs concern over Russia plane shooting

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines yesterday expressed concern over the reported downing by Turkey of a Russian warplane near the Syrian border.

“The situation is being closely monitored,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said the plane posed no threat to Turkey as the aircraft was shot down over Syrian airspace and fell inside Syria.

“We appeal for calm, sobriety and self-restraint by all parties concerned,” the DFA said.

“We urge all parties to immediately enhance their coordination to avoid such incidents in the future.”