BEIJING -- The Philippineshas rejected Taiwan’s requst to take part in an investigation into last week’s killing of a Taiwan fisherman by the the Philippine Coast Guard.

Philippine Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda says there are protocols to be observed under a Mutual Legal Assistance arrangement. Meanwhile, the country’s justice secretary, Leila de Lima, says the Philippines cannot agree to a joint investigation because it has its own processes and justice system. She says Taiwan investigators should channel their request through the Manila Economic and Cultural Office and the Philippines’ representative office in Taiwan.

Taiwan media says no Philippine government officials met the team members when they arrived in Manila.