The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr., is contemplating a rejuvenation or refurbishment of the grounded BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal.

This initiative is part of a larger strategy to enhance soldiers’ living conditions while safeguarding the nation’s territory against Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Brawner emphasized, “We possess the authority to refurbish our BRP Sierra Madre vessel” and ensure it becomes habitable for our troops. Ayungin Shoal is just one of nine islands where the Philippines has established structures. The remaining eight are Parola, Pagasa, Kota, Panata, Likas, Law, Patag, and Rizal Reef islands.

In March 2014, the dilapidated Philippine Navy ship, LT 57 (Sierra Madre), with deployed troops, was positioned off Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, in the South China Sea.

The chief underscored the necessity to “sustain, support, and strengthen the presence of the Philippine military in these fiercely disputed waters.” However, he declined to divulge specifics about the timeline, reiterating that the AFP is responsible for ensuring the soldiers’ welfare.

Regarding the transportation of construction materials for BRP Sierra Madre, Brawner asserted, “Any objections are baseless. The Philippine ship is situated within our exclusive economic zone (EEZ).” He reaffirmed the right to carry out resupply missions, safeguard the EEZ, and ensure soldiers’ safety aboard BRP Sierra Madre.

Brawner proposed the engagement of civilian boats to transport materials, though the frequency of these trips remained uncertain. He endorsed using gray ships to convey essential cargo to Ayungin Shoal, primarily to prolong the dilapidated ship’s life and avoid potential clashes with Chinese entities.

Emphasizing comprehensive interagency coordination, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo highlighted the necessity of safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and rights in maritime zones. During his visit to the Philippine Coast Guard headquarters, Manalo stressed the importance of this approach. (ai/mnm)