MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has voiced concerns about China’s deployment of a carrier strike group in the Philippine Sea.
“We emphasize the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region and urge all parties to adhere to international laws and norms, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” said AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla.
Reports indicate that the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, accompanied by a guided missile destroyer and a frigate, was spotted 323 miles off Miyako Island, conducting flight deck operations with its jet fighters and helicopters.
“The AFP remains committed to safeguarding our maritime interests and ensuring the security of our territorial waters through continued vigilance,” Padilla added.
AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad noted that they are also monitoring a bilateral exercise between China and Russia in the Philippine Sea.
“The AFP is committed to ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to monitor this situation to ensure PH sovereign rights are not violated,” he said.
(el Amigo/mnm)
