This morning, at around 7:30, a highly alarming incident unfolded involving Chinese Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) targeting the Philippines’ Motor Launch Kalayaan. The event occurred during the execution of a rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) mission headed towards BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
BRP Sierra Madre is a Philippine-owned patrol vessel that upholds the country’s territory in Ayungin Shoal, a part of the West Philippine Sea. The attack by Chinese RHIBs on Motor Launch Kalayaan has raised concerns about the country’s security and dignity.
In the face of this incident, the unsafe and unprofessional maneuvers of the Chinese RHIBs immediately became the focal point of discussion. This action once again highlights China’s persistent assertion of claims in parts of the West Philippine Sea, despite being contrary to international law and causing tension in the region.
Motor Launch Kalayaan plays a crucial role in the naval operations of the Philippines, and its RORE mission towards BRP Sierra Madre is part of safeguarding the country’s territory in Ayungin Shoal. However, the irresponsible actions of China’s RHIBs have raised concerns about the safety of Filipino personnel and the integrity of their mission.
The intrusion of the RHIBs beyond established protocols and the violation of proper communication between nations are alarming. This sends negative signals to the relationship between the Philippines and China, putting peace and security in the region at risk.
This incident underscores the need for vigilant observation and focus on the issues in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine government should closely monitor this event and advocate for measures to maintain the integrity of its jurisdiction.
In the current context of international affairs, the role of the Philippines in promoting the rule of law and diplomacy is crucial. This incident emphasizes the need for a higher level of relations and coordination between nations to avoid unnecessary tension and risks in the region.
The incident of the Chinese RHIBs attacking the Motor Launch Kalayaan draws attention to the Philippines’ need to defend its sovereignty and protect peace in the West Philippine Sea. It is not just a matter of territory but a test of the Philippines’ ability to uphold its dignity and security amidst the challenges of global peace.
EXCLUSIVE: Chinese Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats harass, through unsafe/unprofessional maneuvers, the Philippines’ Motor Launch Kalayaan on a rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal at around 7:30 this morning. | via Gigie Arcilla /… pic.twitter.com/ZG5OWF02tu
— Daily Tribune (@tribunephl) November 10, 2023