AFP Denies China’s Supervision Claims on BRP Sierra Madre Mission
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) firmly denied China’s assertion that it supervised the recent military rotation and resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. The AFP emphasized that it does not require permission from any foreign country to conduct operations protecting the nation’s sovereign rights.
“We have sovereign rights over Ayungin Shoal. BRP Sierra Madre is a commissioned vessel of the Philippine Navy. It is our mandate to provide provisions and to rotate the men aboard the BRP Sierra Madre,” a spokesperson for the Philippine Navy said. He also stressed, “We need not seek permission from any foreign power, much more from one that has encroached on our exclusive economic zone. These missions will continue.”
Details of the Recent Resupply Mission and Chinese Response
On May 16, the AFP carried out the latest rotation and resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre using the commissioned vessel MV Lapu-Lapu. The mission successfully delivered supplies and rotated personnel aboard the World War II-era ship despite the presence of four Chinese coast guard vessels nearby. However, no coercive or aggressive actions were reported during the operation.
Meanwhile, the China Coast Guard claimed that it “allowed and supervised” the resupply mission to Ren’ai Jiao, China’s name for Ayungin Shoal. According to their statement, the Philippines sent a civilian vessel with Chinese permission, and the Chinese side conducted inquiries, verification, and full supervision throughout the operation.
AFP Stands Firm on Sovereign Rights and Rejects Chinese Narrative
The AFP rejected the Chinese claim as an attempt to mislead the international community and assert control without legal basis. It reaffirmed that Ayungin Shoal lies within the Philippine exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, granting the Philippines the right to conduct routine activities there.
Ayungin Shoal is a low-tide elevation located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan, well within the country’s 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. Although China claims the area based on its so-called 10-dash line, this claim was invalidated by a 2016 international arbitral ruling.
Continuing Resupply Missions Amid Regional Tensions
This recent operation marks the eighth uninterrupted rotation and resupply mission since July 27, 2024. The AFP vowed to continue fulfilling its mandate with professionalism and determination. It also called on the public and the international community to stay alert against deliberate disinformation that threatens peace and stability in the region.
For more news and updates on BRP Sierra Madre resupply mission, visit Filipinokami.com.