The statement from CG Commodore Jay Tarriela, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), emphasizes unity among Filipinos amid heightened tensions following a recent incident at Ayungin Shoal. On August 5, 2023, China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels engaged in aggressive behavior by executing dangerous maneuvers and using water cannons against PCG vessels, which were escorting indigenous boats commissioned by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Commodore Tarriela highlighted the importance of national loyalty in light of these developments, urging Filipinos to stand together in defending the country’s interests. While acknowledging the significance of free speech, he cautioned against its misuse to justify actions that may harm national unity. He concluded by reiterating that the resources of the West Philippine Sea are intended for the Filipino people:
“”Dahil sa West Philippine Sea, ang yaman nito ay para sa Pilipino!””
The appeal for unity aligns with ongoing efforts by the Philippines to peacefully manage territorial disputes in the area, balancing diplomacy with proactive defense measures.1
The Malapascua was on a maritime patrol, accompanied by the BRP Malabrigo, when they were reportedly shadowed by Chinese navy and coast guard vessels, which ordered them to leave the area several times. This incident mirrors a similar confrontation in June when CCG vessels executed dangerous maneuvers against PCG ships in the same region. The Philippine government has consistently raised diplomatic protests against China’s alleged harassment of Filipino fishermen and incursions within the WPS, citing the threat these actions pose to Philippine sovereignty and maritime safety.
At the core of the dispute is China’s assertion of sovereignty over large parts of the South China Sea, marked by the so- called nine-dash line. This claim overlaps with the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and other countries’ maritime zones. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled that China’s nine-dash line claim has no legal basis and upheld the rights of Filipino fishermen to operate in the disputed waters. However, China has rejected this ruling and continues to assert control in the area through guard and maritime militia operations.
The Philippine government has sought diplomatic and multilateral support, underscoring the importance of freedom of navigation and rule of law in the South China Sea. However, the persistent confrontations indicate ongoing challenges in enforcing the 2016 arbitral ruling and managing the complex geopolitical tensions in the region.