UNITED States Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton has strongly condemned China’s actions at Ayungin Shoal, describing as “dangerous blocking” the maneuvers that nearly caused a collision with a Philippine vessel and prevented a routine resupply mission on September 24.
Lipton stated the United States stands firmly with the Philippines in opposition to such conduct, calling on China to immediately cease all escalatory tactics in the West Philippine Sea. The envoy’s remarks underscore growing international concern over repeated confrontations involving Chinese vessels in areas where the Philippines exercises sovereign rights.
The incident involved Chinese Coast Guard ships positioning themselves directly in the path of a Philippine resupply vessel, creating a serious risk of collision and effectively blocking access to the outpost. Diplomatic sources confirmed the mission was intended to deliver essential provisions to troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre. Lipton emphasized that freedom of navigation and overflight, as well as unimpeded lawful maritime commerce, must be respected by all parties and that actions that raise the risk of miscalculation are unacceptable.
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, noting that an armed attack on Philippine vessels or armed forces in the Pacific would trigger its defense obligations. The latest development follows a pattern of reported harassment and restriction of access to Philippine‑held features, prompting calls from Manila for stronger diplomatic and multilateral engagement. Authorities in Manila are expected to file a formal diplomatic protest over the incident as investigations continue.
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