IN A formal call to action on Thursday, the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) urged China to dismantle all structures deemed illegal in the contested Spratly Islands, located in the hotly disputed South China Sea.

DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza emphasized the need for China to take responsibility for the damages resulting from its contentious activities in the region.

The statement from Daza aimed to refute recent assertions by China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin, made on November 10.

Wang claimed that the Philippines had intentionally grounded the BRP Sierra Madre in Ren’ai Jiao (Ayungin Shoal) in an attempt to establish a permanent presence there. The Philippines rejects this assertion.

China, asserting Ren’ai Jiao as its territory, dispatched Coast Guard vessels and maritime militia boats to obstruct Philippine resupply missions to the beached BRP Sierra Madre.

Daza underscored the historical context, recalling a similar incident in 1995 when the Philippines protested against China’s construction in Mischief Reef.

China had assured the structure was a mere “fisherman’s shelter,” but it has since evolved into a militarized artificial island. Daza pointed out that other reefs, such as Calderon Reef, Kagitingan Reef, Burgos Reefs, McKennan Reef, Johnson Reef, and Zamora Reef, have undergone similar militarization.

The DFA’s call to action includes demands for China to dismantle these illegal structures, cease further reclamations in the South China Sea, and accept accountability for the damages incurred.

Daza stated firmly, “We will not give prior notification for our resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal,” asserting the legitimacy of these activities within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) under international law.

Highlighting the significance of the BRP Sierra Madre, stationed in Ayungin Shoal since 1999, Daza clarified that it serves as a constant government presence in response to China’s “illegal occupation” of Panganiban Reef (Mischief Reef) in 1995, predating the signing of the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DoC) in 2002.

China, however, contends that the Philippines’ efforts to repair and reinforce the BRP Sierra Madre for a permanent presence violate international law and the DoC signed with ASEAN members in 2002. The DoC emphasizes treaty obligations, respect for freedom of navigation and overflight, and encourages peaceful dispute resolution among signatories.

(AI/MNM)