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MANILA, Philippines – In a firm statement signaling the Philippines' unwavering resolve, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Romeo Brawner Jr. has issued clear instructions to troops stationed at Ayungin Shoal: prevent Chinese forces from boarding the BRP Sierra Madre at all costs. This directive underscores the escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea and the Philippines' commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity.

The BRP Sierra Madre, a decommissioned Philippine Navy landing ship, serves as a symbolic outpost of Philippine sovereignty in the disputed waters. It is deliberately grounded at Ayungin Shoal (also known as Second Thomas Shoal) to assert the Philippines' claim over the area. The ship is manned by a small contingent of Philippine Marines who regularly face harassment and attempts at obstruction by the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels.

Brawner's order follows recent incidents where Chinese vessels have attempted to forcibly offload personnel and supplies onto the BRP Sierra Madre. These actions are viewed by the Philippines as aggressive and a violation of international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“We have instructed our personnel to ensure that no one boards the BRP Sierra Madre,” Brawner stated. “We will not allow them to do so. Our Marines are there to defend our territory and uphold our rights.” This message is not only directed at the troops on the ground but also serves as a clear warning to China.

The situation at Ayungin Shoal is particularly sensitive as it falls within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as defined by UNCLOS. The Philippines has repeatedly protested China's expansive claims in the South China Sea, which overlap with the EEZ of several Southeast Asian nations.

Strengthening Defenses and International Partnerships

In addition to the direct order to the troops, the AFP is also undertaking efforts to bolster its defenses in the West Philippine Sea. This includes enhancing maritime patrols, improving communication capabilities, and strengthening partnerships with like-minded nations, such as the United States, Australia, and Japan.

The Philippines' alliance with the United States is particularly crucial, as the US has reaffirmed its commitment to defending the Philippines against any armed attack in the South China Sea. Joint military exercises and increased security assistance are key components of this partnership.

Diplomatic Efforts and Legal Challenges

While the Philippines maintains a firm stance on the ground, it also continues to pursue diplomatic and legal avenues to resolve the South China Sea dispute. The Philippines won a landmark case at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016, which invalidated China's sweeping claims in the region. However, China has refused to recognize the ruling.

The Philippines is actively engaging with regional forums, such as ASEAN, to promote a rules-based order in the South China Sea and to encourage China to abide by international law. The ongoing dialogue aims to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful resolution to the dispute.

Brawner’s directive reflects the Philippines' unwavering determination to protect its sovereign rights and interests in the West Philippine Sea. The situation remains volatile, but the Philippines is prepared to defend its claims and uphold the rule of law.