In a strongly worded statement, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. condemned China's "dangerous and reckless behavior" in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), following a reported incident involving a Philippine resupply ship and a Chinese Coast Guard vessel near Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal).
"The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will firmly resist such actions," declared Secretary Teodoro. "China's behavior directly contradicts their claims of good faith and undermines regional peace and stability."
The Philippines maintains that the resupply mission was well within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as defined by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). China, however, has made expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea, including areas well within the Philippines' 200-nautical mile EEZ.
According to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS), the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) engaged in "illegal and aggressive actions" during the resupply mission. These actions reportedly included dangerous maneuvers, ramming, and towing attempts, forcing the Philippine vessel to take evasive actions.
"The professionalism and restraint displayed by our Filipino personnel in the face of such hostility is commendable," said Secretary Teodoro. "Despite the provocation, they prioritized de-escalation while still fulfilling their mission to support our troops stationed at BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57)."
The BRP Sierra Madre is a grounded Philippine navy vessel serving as a military outpost on Ayungin Shoal. The Philippines has long maintained a presence on the shoal to assert its claims in the WPS.
The latest incident comes amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea. Earlier this year, Chinese coast guard ships were accused of firing water cannons at Philippine patrol vessels near Scarborough Shoal, another disputed territory.
"The international community must recognize China's actions as the true obstacle to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region," urged Secretary Teodoro. "The Philippines will continue to uphold its sovereign rights and work with our allies to ensure a rules-based order in the South China Sea."
The Department of National Defense (DND) has assured the public that the AFP remains vigilant and will continue to protect Philippine territory. The DND also called for diplomatic channels to remain open to peacefully resolve the situation.