NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
PH Faces Chinese Provocations During Resupply Mission
Screengrab from PCG
In a routine and regular rotation and resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre stationed at Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, two incidents of dangerous maneuvering by Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels resulted in collisions.
The first incident involved a collision between a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and a Philippine supply boat, while the second saw a Chinese Maritime Militia vessel striking a Philippine Coast Guard vessel. Fortunately, all crew members remained unharmed.
National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo M. Ano expressed the Philippines' determination to continue resupplying their troops despite provocations. Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos commended the sailors' professionalism in handling dangerous maneuvers, emphasizing the importance of avoiding escalation. Newly appointed PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan stressed the need for China to adhere to maritime safety provisions to prevent incidents that could put lives at risk.
As of the latest update, Philippine Coast Guard vessels are escorting damaged supply boats back to their home port, with one vessel staying behind to ensure a safe trip.
In response to China's claims that their actions were "reasonable, lawful, and professional," Secretary Año asserted the professionalism, restraint, and gallantry of Philippine officers and personnel.
China's Foreign Ministry defended the China Coast Guard's actions as lawful and professional. The Philippines had illegally "grounded" a warship at Ren'ai Jiao, violating China's territorial sovereignty.
China urged the Philippines to honor their promise, cease provocations at sea, and tow away the "grounded" warship to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea. China vowed to take necessary measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
The first incident involved a collision between a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and a Philippine supply boat, while the second saw a Chinese Maritime Militia vessel striking a Philippine Coast Guard vessel. Fortunately, all crew members remained unharmed.
National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo M. Ano expressed the Philippines' determination to continue resupplying their troops despite provocations. Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos commended the sailors' professionalism in handling dangerous maneuvers, emphasizing the importance of avoiding escalation. Newly appointed PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan stressed the need for China to adhere to maritime safety provisions to prevent incidents that could put lives at risk.
As of the latest update, Philippine Coast Guard vessels are escorting damaged supply boats back to their home port, with one vessel staying behind to ensure a safe trip.
In response to China's claims that their actions were "reasonable, lawful, and professional," Secretary Año asserted the professionalism, restraint, and gallantry of Philippine officers and personnel.
China's Foreign Ministry defended the China Coast Guard's actions as lawful and professional. The Philippines had illegally "grounded" a warship at Ren'ai Jiao, violating China's territorial sovereignty.
China urged the Philippines to honor their promise, cease provocations at sea, and tow away the "grounded" warship to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea. China vowed to take necessary measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
Oct 23, 2023
