NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
President Marcos Firmly Denies Existence Of Agreement To Remove BRP Sierra Madre From Ayungin Shoal
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has unequivocally stated that there is no valid agreement between the Philippines and China regarding the removal of BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. The President's assertion contradicts China's claims, asserting that the Philippine government had previously committed to the removal of the military vessel.
"I'm not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal," President Marcos remarked.
President Marcos made these statements following the recent renewal of China's call on Monday for the Philippines to take action and remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. The strategic location, situated within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone since 1999, holds significant symbolism as a representation of the country's sovereignty rights and jurisdiction.
The President further emphasized that he is prepared to revoke any commitment if an actual agreement exists between the Philippines and China regarding the supposed removal of BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.
"And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now," President Marcos asserted, underlining his stance on the matter.
The issue of the BRP Sierra Madre's presence in Ayungin Shoal continues to be a point of contention between the Philippines and China, highlighting the complexities surrounding territorial disputes and diplomatic relations in the region. President Marcos's resolute statements solidify his position on the matter, signaling his commitment to safeguarding the Philippines' territorial integrity and sovereignty.
"I'm not aware of any such arrangement or agreement that the Philippines will remove from its own territory its ship, in this case, the BRP Sierra Madre from the Ayungin Shoal," President Marcos remarked.
President Marcos made these statements following the recent renewal of China's call on Monday for the Philippines to take action and remove the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal. The strategic location, situated within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone since 1999, holds significant symbolism as a representation of the country's sovereignty rights and jurisdiction.
The President further emphasized that he is prepared to revoke any commitment if an actual agreement exists between the Philippines and China regarding the supposed removal of BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal.
"And let me go further, if there does exist such an agreement, I rescind that agreement now," President Marcos asserted, underlining his stance on the matter.
The issue of the BRP Sierra Madre's presence in Ayungin Shoal continues to be a point of contention between the Philippines and China, highlighting the complexities surrounding territorial disputes and diplomatic relations in the region. President Marcos's resolute statements solidify his position on the matter, signaling his commitment to safeguarding the Philippines' territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Aug 9, 2023
