From the Manila Times (Aug 11, 2023): AFP to 'carefully' plan next Ayungin resupply mission (By Franco Jose C. Baroña)
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Thursday that it will carefully plan the next resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal to ensure that it will be safely and successfully carried out.
This shows the BRP Sierra Madre of the Philippine Navy anchored near Ayungin Shoal with Filipino soldiers onboard to secure perimeter in the Spratly Islands in the West Philippine Sea on May 11, 2015. PHOTO BY RITCHIE B. TONGO/POOL PHOTO VIA AP
"I know that in the next (resupply mission), all the people in the world are waiting; their eyes are watching what will happen, so let the people know what is being done offensively, the offensive actions, unlawful actions that the China coast guard is doing," AFP spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar said in a public briefing.
Aguilar said the resupply mission will continue as the AFP cannot neglect its soldiers assigned in the West Philippine Sea.
"We have our rights, and we also have responsibilities," he added. "Paramount in our consideration is the safety of our people who will carry out the resupply mission."
Aguilar denied claims made by China that one of the vessels that was blocked by China's coast guard vessel was carrying construction materials for the BRP Sierra Madre.
"At the time (on Aug. 5), it was clear that the contents to be delivered were water, food and supplies that our soldiers needed. Now if at all we develop or repair the BRP Sierra Madre because it is old, rusted, it is our right; the vessel is a commissioned vessel, an active vessel, and it is the obligation of the AFP to repair or maintain it; no one should interfere if we do this," he said.
"I know that in the next (resupply mission), all the people in the world are waiting; their eyes are watching what will happen, so let the people know what is being done offensively, the offensive actions, unlawful actions that the China coast guard is doing," AFP spokesman Col. Medel Aguilar said in a public briefing.
Aguilar said the resupply mission will continue as the AFP cannot neglect its soldiers assigned in the West Philippine Sea.
"We have our rights, and we also have responsibilities," he added. "Paramount in our consideration is the safety of our people who will carry out the resupply mission."
Aguilar denied claims made by China that one of the vessels that was blocked by China's coast guard vessel was carrying construction materials for the BRP Sierra Madre.
"At the time (on Aug. 5), it was clear that the contents to be delivered were water, food and supplies that our soldiers needed. Now if at all we develop or repair the BRP Sierra Madre because it is old, rusted, it is our right; the vessel is a commissioned vessel, an active vessel, and it is the obligation of the AFP to repair or maintain it; no one should interfere if we do this," he said.
https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/08/11/news/national/afp-to-carefully-plan-next-ayungin-resupply-mission/1904822
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