After a tense maritime incident involving the China Coast Guard (CCG) at Ayungin Shoal, Seaman First Class Underwater Operator Jeffrey Facundo of the Philippine Navy has made a remarkable recovery following the reattachment of his thumb.
Facundo lost his thumb when a CCG vessel allegedly collided with a Philippine rubber boat during a resupply mission to the Philippine-occupied area in the West Philippine Sea on June 17.
According to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., the surgery, performed with the support of the Makati Medical Foundation, was successful, allowing Facundo to regain normal function in his thumb.
“His finger has been restored. It is now functioning well, normally. This would not have been possible without the skill and dedication of our medical team and the assistance of our partners,” Brawner said on Monday, November 4.
The incident, which resulted in damage to Philippine Navy equipment and injuries to Facundo, has drawn renewed calls from the AFP for accountability and compensation from China.
The AFP is also demanding P60 million in damages for the puncturing of two Navy rigid-hulled inflatable boats, as well as losses in communications and navigational equipment.
Facundo’s injury, which occurred during an essential resupply operation, represents the risks Filipino forces face in the contested waters. Despite his injury, Facundo has displayed resilience and commitment, returning to duty in the West Philippine Sea following his recovery.
“His willingness to return to duty speaks volumes about his dedication to our mission,” Brawner added, acknowledging the personal sacrifices of service members like Facundo.
The AFP has formally lodged a demand for compensation through the Department of Foreign Affairs, pushing for China to not only acknowledge its role in the incident but also to return allegedly seized firearms and other equipment.
“We will continue to demand that it is our right. They are at fault. They stole our equipment. They should return it,” Brawner stated firmly, stressing that the AFP will not relent until reparations are made.
The collision has heightened tensions between the Philippines and China, with the Philippine government continuing to protest incursions by the CCG into Philippine-claimed waters.