The Commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Romeo Brawner Jr., has issued a stern warning to utilize equal force in defense should they encounter another assault from China’s coast guard in the disputed South China Sea. This statement follows a recent altercation that resulted in injuries to Filipino naval personnel and the damage of two vessels. Brawner has also requested 60 million pesos in compensation for the two navy boats and the return of seven rifles seized by Chinese coast guard personnel during the June 17 confrontation at Second Thomas Shoal.
These demands, along with a strong protest, were conveyed to a Chinese government delegation in Manila. Nevertheless, the Chinese delegation has not provided an immediate response to these demands. The Philippine military may also pursue compensation for a naval officer who lost his right thumb during the clash at the shoal.
“We will respond with comparable force to defend ourselves. If a knife is utilized, for instance, our personnel will also use a knife, nothing further, in adherence with the principle of proportionality,” remarked General Brawner when questioned about the potential reaction of Filipino navy personnel in the event of another confrontation with Chinese forces.
The territorial disputes in the South China Sea, involving several countries including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, have long been considered a potential conflict area. Second Thomas Shoal has emerged as a particularly perilous area, with Chinese ships obstructing the delivery of supplies to Manila’s territorial outpost.
Both China and the Philippines have accused each other of instigating the confrontation at the shoal. China asserts the area as its territorial waters and accuses the Filipinos of trespassing despite warnings. Conversely, the Philippines stated that its naval personnel were delivering supplies to Filipino forces when they were attacked by Chinese coast guard personnel.
The escalating tensions have raised concerns about a potential armed conflict. The United States has consistently underscored its commitment to defend the Philippines against armed attacks, including those in the disputed waters.
In a private meeting, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. convened with senior military commanders to discuss ongoing efforts in counter-insurgency and strategies to protect Philippine territorial interests in the South China Sea. Marcos has urged Filipino forces to take measures to de-escalate tensions, emphasizing the nation’s desire to avoid war while asserting its territorial rights.
The situation in the South China Sea remains precarious, and the actions of all involved parties will be closely scrutinized as the international community endeavors toward a peaceful resolution of the disputes.
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