Philippines asserts sovereignty and territorial rights amidst West Philippine Sea challenges

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has strongly condemned the China Coast Guard’s (CCG) dangerous maneuvers and illegal use of water cannons.

The incident, which occurred on August 5, involved PCG vessels escorting indigenous boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to deliver essential supplies to military troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.

The situation has escalated tensions in the region, prompting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to send a note verbale to the Chinese Embassy in Manila yesterday, August 7, asserting the Philippines’ protest against the incident in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo held a crucial meeting with Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian to formally submit the note verbale expressing the Philippines’ strong objection to the recent water cannon spraying incident at Ayungin Shoal.

The note verbale serves as an official diplomatic communication expressing the country’s protest against the actions of the CCG and underscores the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its territorial integrity and national interests.

President Marcos also led a command conference yesterday that aims to gather key officials and military leaders to discuss and strategize how the Philippine government will respond to the escalating situation in the WPS.

During the command conference, President Marcos has emphasized the importance of adhering to established international laws and protocols to maintain peace and stability in the region. The conference targets to determine the most effective course of action in protecting the country’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of its citizens and military personnel stationed in the area.

The Ayungin Shoal has been a longstanding point of contention between the Philippines and China, and the recent incident has heightened tensions in the region. The command conference seeks to address the complexities of the situation and explore diplomatic avenues while emphasizing the Philippines’ commitment to upholding international laws and protocols in maritime disputes.

As the Philippine government addresses the issue through diplomatic means, the outcomes of the command conference and subsequent communication with Chinese officials will be closely monitored by the global audience.