The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported the successful completion of a resupply mission to troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, despite the presence of multiple Chinese vessels in the area.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla confirmed that up to eight Chinese vessels were monitored but did not threaten the mission, allowing essential supplies to be delivered.
The Sierra Madre serves as a military outpost and was deliberately grounded in 1999.
Padilla emphasized the AFP’s commitment to protecting the Philippines’ interests in the West Philippine Sea and maintaining vigilance against potential Chinese harassment.
Meanwhile, US Coast Guard Pacific Command chief Vice Admiral Andrew Tiongson commended the Philippine Coast Guard for managing supply missions independently, noting that no requests for US escorts had been made.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 28, 2024
