Photo credit: Handout / National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea / AFP

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has announced that the Philippines will be filing a diplomatic protest against China following the latter’s aggressive actions in the country’s airspace over Bajo de Masinloc.

Teodoro Jr. emphasized, “We cannot not do it unless kung hindi nag-a-acquiesce tayo,” reflecting the country's commitment to standing firm against these provocative maneuvers.

Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo also weighed in, revealing that the National Maritime Council will be convening this week to deliberate on the incident and formulate a suitable response. He expressed frustration, noting, “Definitely, we will protest this latest move na coming at a time na medyo nagka-calm down nang konti, then bigla na lang nangyari ito.”

Manalo pointed out that these actions are part of a broader, ongoing pattern of assertiveness from China in the region. “The National Maritime Council will consider these things,” he said. “We have to expect na ito ay continuous pattern na gagawin ng China laban sa atin. Ito ay continuous na struggle for presence and for assertion of sovereign rights in the area.”

Both Teodoro and Manalo agree that the situation demands a firm response to uphold the Philippines' sovereignty and adherence to international law. As the nation prepares its diplomatic response, all eyes will be on China’s next moves and whether they will heed calls for de-escalation.