Photo credit: PCG

The Philippines isn’t backing down when it comes to defending its rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Despite recent challenges, including a collision that damaged two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels, the country remains steadfast in upholding its territorial claims. Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez, the newly appointed spokesperson for the National Maritime Council (NMC), made this clear during a press briefing on Tuesday.

“We're deeply concerned about China's deliberate harassment and infringement on our sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. However, our commitment to protecting our territories and ensuring peaceful resolutions remains unwavering,” Lopez emphasized. This strong stance comes in the wake of the August 19 incident near Escoda Shoal, where Chinese vessels collided with two PCG ships during a routine logistics mission.

The damaged vessels, BRP Bagacay and BRP Cape Engaño, are a stark reminder of the risks faced by the PCG in defending Philippine waters. Yet, Lopez reassured the public that the country’s routine maritime activities would continue, with a firm focus on protecting the WPS from environmental harm and illegal activities.

Lopez didn't hold back in condemning the Chinese Coast Guard’s actions, calling them "unprofessional, dangerous, and a blatant violation of international law," including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He stressed that such behavior only undermines efforts to build trust and maintain a rules-based international order. The Philippines is now urging China to reconsider its aggressive stance and follow international laws.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is also weighing in on the situation, with discussions underway about potentially filing a diplomatic protest against China. As the tension in the WPS continues to escalate, the Philippines stands firm in its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and seeking peaceful resolutions.