The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) firmly rejected China’s assertion that a recent resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal required Chinese permission. The AFP clarified that the mission was lawful and conducted within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, in accordance with international law.
China’s Ministry of National Defense had claimed that the mission was “supervised” by the China Coast Guard, but the AFP dismissed this as misleading. The Philippine military reiterated that it does not seek permission from any foreign state to conduct operations that assert its sovereign rights.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, where China claims vast territories despite international rulings against its claims. The Philippines has consistently defended its sovereignty, citing the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that invalidated China’s claims.
The AFP assured the public that it would continue to uphold the country’s sovereign rights. Officials urged vigilance against disinformation that threatens regional peace and stability. The incident underscores the broader geopolitical struggle in the region.
