DFA condemns shooting of Malaysian jet

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday condemned the shooting down of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 near the Ukraine-Russia border which killed 298 civilians including three Filipinos.

"We convey our profound condolences for all who perished in this tragedy. It is of utmost importance that the international community come together to help determine those who are responsible for this brutal act against a civilian airliner in civilian airspace," the state agency noted.

DFA added that those responsible should be made fully accountable for the assault on the non-military aircraft that posed no threat to either warring parties.

Russia and Ukraine are trading blame over who was responsible for shooting the plane with a surface-to-air missile.

DFA said the international community should cooperate in reducing such tragedies all over the world.

"States and non-state elements in dispute should exercise restraint, respect international law, and search for the peaceful resolution of disputes," the state agency noted.