Courtesy: PCO
PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan to Malacañang following the latest violent confrontation at Ayungin Shoal, where Chinese Coast Guard personnel physically assaulted a Filipino service member and damaged government property.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines reported that a Philippine Navy sailor was struck on the head with a wooden baton while the crew carried out a lawful rotation and resupply mission near the BRP Sierra Madre. The incident marks a serious escalation that goes beyond typical maritime harassment, involving direct physical harm to personnel performing their official duties within the country’s exclusive economic zone.
The Department of Foreign Affairs described the assault and property damage as “unacceptable” and confirmed that appropriate diplomatic steps will be taken to hold the other side accountable.
Such actions violate international law, established safety protocols at sea, and the fundamental principle of respect for the safety and dignity of uniformed personnel. The summons sent to Ambassador Jing underscores the gravity of the incident and the highest level of concern from the Philippine government, which is demanding an explanation and assurance that similar aggressive acts will not be repeated.
Ayungin Shoal lies well within the Philippines’ maritime jurisdiction, as affirmed by the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated overlapping claims in the West Philippine Sea. Authorities emphasized that the mission was peaceful and legitimate, aimed only at providing provisions and relief to troops stationed there.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to defending national sovereignty and the safety of its people, while pursuing all necessary diplomatic and legal avenues to ensure that Philippine rights are upheld and respected.
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