MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has called in officials from the Chinese Embassy to address the Philippines' strong opposition to recent confrontational activities by the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia against Filipino forces in the Ayungin Shoal. This diplomatic move follows an aggressive incident involving the obstruction of a Philippine resupply mission within its own exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Embassy in Beijing has concurrently filed a formal démarche with the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reinforcing the message that China's presence and activities in Ayungin Shoal, within the Philippine EEZ, violate international law. The 2016 Arbitral Award and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) both support the Philippines' stance, emphasizing that the area is under its sovereign rights and jurisdiction.
The DFA's communications articulate the country's demand for the immediate withdrawal of Chinese vessels from the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal and the broader Philippine EEZ. These events come amid ongoing efforts by both Philippine and Chinese leadership to de-escalate tensions in the South China Sea, with recent actions by China raising questions about its commitment to peace and regional stability.
During a recent altercation, the Armed Forces of the Philippines documented Chinese vessels employing aggressive maneuvers and water cannons against Filipino ships performing routine supply rotations, highlighting the volatility of the situation.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. echoed sentiments of frustration and concern regarding China's contradictory behavior, advocating for arbitration under international law to clarify sovereign rights transparently and justly. He criticized the Chinese government for its intimidatory tactics and baseless accusations, asserting the legitimacy of the Philippines' actions within its own EEZ.
In response to these developments, Senator Grace Poe has called for accountability from China, condemning the aggressive acts against Philippine vessels conducting lawful operations. The senator emphasized the necessity of uninterrupted resupply missions within Philippine territory and urged for redress against the unwarranted hostility faced by Filipino personnel.