RETIRED Philippine Navy Commander Leysander Ordones said that the best way to maintain the Philippines’ presence and rightful claims in the West Philippines Sea is by occupying geographical territories and vigorously enforcing maritime patrols in the Exclusive Economic Zone.
In a recently concluded forum organized by the National Youth Movement for the West Philippines Sea, Ordones added that “because of these positive actions, we also ensure the safety, security and well-being of our Filipino fishermen and merchant ships.”
The forum came a week after the June 17 violent incident when the China Coast Guard rammed, blocked, towed, and punched the Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines on a critical humanitarian rotation and resupply mission at BRP Sierra Madre grounded on Ayungin Shoal.
CCG personnel brandished bolos and axes, and employed blaring sirens and blinding strobe lights to “create chaos, disrupt communication” injuring seven navy personnel including one who lost a finger in a scuffle.
CCG successfully prevented Philippine sailors from going to Ayungin.The NYMWPS condemns in the strongest possible terms the barbaric and inhumane planned attack of China Coast Guard against the Philippines sailors who stood their ground and bravely fought back.
Following the brutal attack, Dra. Celia Lamkin, founder and global chairperson of NYMWPS, said they were closely monitoring the recent incident on June 17.
“We believe that our military men who were part of the rotation an reprovisioning (RoRe) mission at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal were intentionally harassed and injured by the China Coast Guard and they absolutely deserve justice,” she said.
Maverick Paul Bersalona, NYMWPS national chairperson, supported Ordenes call for resolve on the escalating incidents in the West Philippines Sea, “rather than glorifying the Filipino resilience.”
“We call on our government leaders to act on this matter speedily with deep discernment, for the welfare of our troops, fishermen and communities in our West Philippines Sea,” added Bersalona, also the director for internal affairs and membership for youth sector.
