June 27, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. condemned China's recent actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as a "deliberate" attempt to obstruct the Philippine Navy's (PN) resupply mission at Ayungin Shoal.
While Marcos acknowledged the absence of gunfire, he stressed the aggressive nature of the Chinese Coast Guard's (CCG) maneuvers. "They boarded a Philippine vessel and stole equipment. This is still a deliberate and illegal act," he declared.
The President's statement follows the June 17 incident where the CCG reportedly rammed, boarded, and damaged Philippine Navy vessels during a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre. A Philippine sailor lost a finger in the clash.
The government has assured the continuation of unannounced resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre.
Marcos clarified an earlier statement calling the incident a misunderstanding. He explained that upon visiting the AFP's Western Command (WESCOM) in Palawan, they discovered the CCG's actions were intentional.
The President's visit to WESCOM served to boost troop morale and showcase government support for protecting Philippine territory. He awarded military honors to Seaman First Class Jeffrey Facundo, who was injured during the incident, and 79 other personnel involved in the resupply mission.