The China Coast Guard has been blocking Filipino supply vessels from reaching the Teresa Magbanua patrol ship stationed at Escoda Shoal, according to Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela.
For over a week, resupply missions involving both Coast Guard and Bureau of Fisheries vessels have been obstructed by Chinese forces.
The Teresa Magbanua has been deployed at Escoda Shoal, which is within the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ), since April following reports of potential reclamation by China.
Tarriela condemned China’s aggressive actions and emphasized the need for fuel subsidies to support Filipino fishermen and assert Philippine sovereignty.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stressed the importance of strengthening the Philippines’ defense capabilities to deter potential armed attacks and respond to China’s illegal maritime claims.
Source : PhilNews24 | August 27, 2024
