Philippines reaffirms peaceful stance amid rising tensions in WPS

June 24, 2024 , 12:58 PM

(June 24, 2024) — Pres. Bongbong Marcos asserted the country’s commitment to peace a week after the China Coast Guard’s “barbaric” blockade of a resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal. Despite China’s aggressive actions, Marcos emphasized that the Philippines will not resort to violence.

“Kailanman ay hindi tayo magpapasupil at magpapaapi kahit na kanino man,” Marcos stated during his visit to the Western Command (WESCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Sunday.

The incident delayed the rotation and resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre as Chinese vessels rammed Philippine boats, pointed axes and knives at Filipino soldiers, and punctured a rubber boat. Despite China’s accusations, Marcos stated that the country will not resort to the use of force or intimidation or deliberately inflict injury or harm on anyone.

“The Philippines is a responsible state. We will continue to exercise our freedoms and rights in support of our national interest, in accordance with international law. We are not in the business to instigate wars. Our great ambition is to provide a peaceful and prosperous life for every Filipino,” he said.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela earlier stated that the incident on June 17 cannot be considered an “armed attack” and suggested that it might have been a misunderstanding or miscommunication.

However, the United States is concerned about the escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink condemned China’s actions as “irresponsible, aggressive, and dangerous.” He assured that the U.S. remains steadfast in its alliance with the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, which obligates the U.S. to defend the Philippines in case of an armed attack.

During his visit to the WESCOM, Marcos also honored 79 soldiers involved in the resupply mission with the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kamagi. The President also awarded Seaman First Class Jeffrey Facundo, who lost a finger during the encounter with the China Coast Guard, with the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kampilan.

Despite escalating tensions, Marcos urged soldiers to remain vigilant in defending the West Philippine Sea. Meanwhile, China has opposed the Philippines’ request to the United Nations to extend its continental shelf, claiming it infringes on China’s sovereignty in the South China Sea. The Philippines has yet to respond to this opposition.

(With reports from Gio Robles, News5)

(CD)

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