The Philippine military has issued a formal warning to China, asserting that they will respond with equal force if they are attacked again in the contested South China Sea. This stern warning follows a recent clash between Chinese and Filipino naval forces, resulting in injuries and damage to Philippine navy personnel and vessels.
General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, has demanded that China compensate the sum of 60 million pesos for the two navy boats and return seven seized rifles. Additionally, the Philippine military may also seek reimbursement for the medical expenses of a navy officer who lost his right thumb during the altercation.
During discussions with a Chinese government delegation in Manila, Philippine officials presented these demands and lodged a strong protest. However, the Chinese delegation has not yet responded to these demands.
At a news conference, General Brawner emphasized that the Philippine military will defend itself using an appropriate level of force, ensuring a proportional response to the threat they face. He also reiterated the Philippine military’s stance of not tolerating any form of bullying from foreign forces.
The South China Sea dispute involves multiple countries, including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. Second Thomas Shoal, in particular, has become a flashpoint of tensions, with Chinese forces preventing the delivery of essential supplies to a Filipino outpost and accusing the Philippines of encroaching on Chinese territorial waters.
The recent clash has further heightened the brewing conflict between China and the Philippines, with each side accusing the other of provoking the confrontation. The situation has raised concerns about the potential for armed conflict and the involvement of other countries, such as the United States, in the region.
In response to these developments, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged Filipino forces to work towards de-escalating tensions in the South China Sea. General Brawner reiterated the government’s desire to avoid war but underscored that the military is committed to defending the country’s territorial integrity.
While the Philippine military remains optimistic for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing dispute, they have made it clear that they will not hesitate to protect their territory and interests in the South China Sea. The situation continues to evolve, and all eyes are on the diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and prevent further escalation in the region.
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