August 11, 2024 - President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has strongly condemned the recent air incident involving the People’s Liberation Army - Air Force (PLAAF) and the Philippine Air Force (PAF) over Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal. The President expressed his unwavering support for the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly the PAF, who were involved in the incident.
In a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), President Marcos described the actions of the PLAAF aircraft as “unjustified, illegal, and reckless.” The incident occurred on August 8, when two PLAAF aircraft executed dangerous maneuvers and dropped flares in the path of a PAF NC-212i aircraft conducting a routine maritime patrol over Philippine sovereign airspace.
“We have hardly started to calm the waters, and it is already worrying that there could be instability in our airspace,” the President remarked, highlighting the potential risks posed by such actions. He emphasized that the Philippines remains committed to proper diplomacy and peaceful means of resolving disputes but urged China to demonstrate responsible behavior both in the seas and in the skies.
The AFP Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr., also condemned the incident, noting that it endangered the lives of PAF personnel and violated international aviation safety laws. Despite the provocation, the AFP has vowed to continue its patrol and surveillance operations in the area to ensure the security of Philippine maritime zones.
The incident has been reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and other relevant government agencies. The Philippines has been seeking support from its international allies, including the United States, to bolster its defense capabilities and uphold its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.
The Scarborough Shoal, a rich fishing ground and strategic location, has been a point of contention between the Philippines and China. The recent air incident underscores the ongoing tensions and the need for responsible actions to maintain stability in the region.