Statement of Senator JV Ejercito on CCG-PCG Incident at Ayungin Shoal
March 5, 2024
I condemn in the strongest possible terms the recent aggression of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) against one of our coastal guard vessels and its crew near Ayungin Shoal. On February 6, 2023, a CCG vessel flashed a military grade laser light at the BRP Malapascua, temporarily blinding some of its crew members. This is despite the fact that the BRP Malapascua was only supporting a naval resupply mission in the area.
I commend the courage of the Philippine Coast Guard for taking up the challenge of patrolling our territorial waters against all odds. You are our first line of defense against any incursion.
As with the construction of Chinese military facilities in the West Philippine Sea, the CCG’s continuing harassment against our coastal guards and fisherfolks is a clear and present danger to our territorial sovereignty. These acts are unacceptable under any book.
I am calling once more on the national government to expedite the modernization of our armed forces and the strengthening of our defense posture. Given these recent incursions, we need to put up a naval force that can project a more respectable presence in the West Philippine Sea. Moreover, this is the best time for us to work with our regional neighbors and defense partners in countering China’s aggression.
