MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. stated on Wednesday that there have been no signs of China constructing any structures at Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) off the province of Zambales.

“Currently, there are no Chinese structures at Scarborough Shoal,” Brawner mentioned in an interview with Radyo Pilipinas.

Last month, the China Coast Guard (CCG) placed a 300-meter floating barrier at the entrance of Scarborough Shoal, which was subsequently removed by the Philippine Coast Guard on orders from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Brawner emphasized that Scarborough Shoal is part of Philippine territory, contrary to China’s claims.

“We assert that it does not belong to them, and Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal is located within our exclusive economic zone (EEZ),” he added.

Brawner emphasized that the AFP has the right to patrol within the country’s EEZ as part of its mandate.

Earlier, the AFP Chief dismissed claims that a Philippine Navy (PN) ship was chased away by the CCG while conducting a maritime patrol near Scarborough Shoal.

While acknowledging that the PN vessel was challenged by the CCG, Brawner clarified that the Filipino naval vessel was not pursued and continued with its mission.

Naval Ships in ‘Exercise Samasama’ Conduct Drills

The Philippine Navy (PN) reported on Wednesday that the missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151) and the US Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG-105) conducted a gunnery exercise (GUNNEX) as part of the ongoing “Exercise Samasama” on Tuesday.

This drill is part of the seagoing phase of the maneuvers, the PN added.

The exercise focused on target acquisition and engagement, as stated by the PN.

“While the BRP Lolinato To-Ong (PG-902) ensured that the GUNNEX area was clear of other vessels and safe for firing naval guns. The ship’s crews of both navies occupied their respective stations in preparation for engaging the inflatable target ‘killer tomato’ deployed by DDG-105,” the statement read.

The PN indicated that BRP Antonio Luna fired its Aselsan SMASH 30mm secondary gun and .50 caliber machine guns, while the USS Dewey used its 25mm Mk38 autocannon and .50 caliber machine guns. (ai/mnm)