By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — China’s recent attacks in the West Philippine Sea, specifically targeting Philippine vessels in Scarborough Shoal and Ayungin Shoal, are not deemed acts of war, according to National Security Council (NSC) Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya on Monday (December 11, 2023).
“The actions displayed in the past few days indicate a desire to escalate situations, primarily evidenced by significant damage to Philippine vessels, including navigation equipment, communications gear, and the engine of the M/L Kalayaan. We are taking this very seriously,” Malaya stated.
“However, is this considered an act of war? We don’t believe so. It seems to be part of the cat-and-mouse game that China is employing to advance its interests. The Philippines remains undeterred, and we will continue these missions in support of our troops and fishermen in the West Philippine Sea,” he added.
The Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) previously deployed water cannons on Philippine vessels, causing damage to the engines of M/L Kalayaan. This action was condemned by senators who urged China to respect international law.
Earlier, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. affirmed that the Philippine government would steadfastly defend the country’s sovereignty. He directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines to continue safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and jurisdiction, assuring full support.
“I have been in constant communication with our national security and defense leadership and have directed our uniformed services to conduct their missions with the utmost regard for the safety of our personnel while maintaining a mission-oriented mindset,” Marcos stated.
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