MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / May 24, 2013) – The Philippine military said it has no plan just yet to deploy more forces in the contested islands in the South China Sea now called West Philippines Sea by Manila despite the presence of Chinese ships and fishing boats near the Ayungin Shoal in the Spratly Islands.
State media also quoted Lt. Cheryl Tindog, of the Western Command, as saying that there is still no order from the Armed Forces of the Philippines to augment its strength in the contested region despite reports of Chinese harassment of Kalayaan Island Mayor Joel Bito-onon.
“According to the higher headquarters there is no need to add forces in the area we claimed, particularly in the West Philippines Sea,” she said.
The politician said he was harassed by two Chinese vessels recently while sailing at sea inside the Philippine territory.
The military continues to monitor the situation in the area and patrol the Philippines exclusive economic zone.
“This is what we’re exactly doing in the area,” Tindog told the Philippine News Agency.
She said the military is supportive of the government’s diplomatic action regarding the presence of the Chinese navy vessels in the disputed island chain.
“At this point, what we can do best is to support the government in its desire to pacify the situation in the area. Let us be patient that something positive will be done,” she said. (With a report from Celeste Anna Formoso)
20