Philippine forces will defend themselves with “the same level of force” if they come under attack again from China’s coast guard in the disputed South China Sea, said Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Thursday. This statement follows a recent incident where Chinese personnel, armed with machetes and spears, injured Filipino navy personnel and damaged two of their boats.
In response to the June 17 confrontation at Second Thomas Shoal, the Philippines is demanding 60 million pesos ($1 million) in damages from China, which includes compensation for two navy boats and the return of seven rifles seized by Chinese coast guard personnel. The clash also led to a Filipino sailor losing a finger.
The demands and a strong protest were relayed during talks with a Chinese government delegation in Manila. The Chinese delegation did not immediately respond to these demands. During the incident, China’s coast guard reportedly punctured Philippine boats and seized firearms.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson defended the actions, stating that Beijing took enforcement measures to protect its sovereignty following provocations by the Philippines. Meanwhile, diplomatic discussions between Chinese Vice-Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong and Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro aimed at easing tensions.
General Brawner emphasized that the Philippine military would respond proportionately to any future confrontations. He clarified that if Chinese forces used knives, Filipino personnel would defend themselves with the same weapons, adhering to the concept of proportionality.
The Second Thomas Shoal, a critical and contested area in the South China Sea, has become increasingly dangerous. Chinese coast guard, navy, and suspected militia ships have surrounded Philippine marines stationed on a grounded ship, aiming to prevent the delivery of supplies to the Filipino outpost. Both China and the Philippines blame each other for the recent confrontations, with Beijing accusing the Filipinos of entering Chinese territorial waters and Manila asserting that its navy was delivering essential supplies to its forces.
Despite a January agreement between China and the Philippines to ease conflicts, recent clashes have cast doubt on the effectiveness of this bilateral mechanism. Chinese vessels have used water cannons on Philippine ships, causing damage and injuries, while maintaining that their actions were lawful and professional.
After meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., General Brawner reiterated the Philippines’ intention to avoid war but emphasized that the military would not allow any foreign country to infringe on its territorial rights. President Marcos ordered the military to take steps to de-escalate tensions in the disputed waters while continuing to defend the Philippines’ sovereignty.
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