Navigating the WPS Dispute: A Call for Transparency and Vigilance

Now The Palace Tells Us That it is An Accident

The latest incident of harassment by China vessels on Philippine boats, which caused a Navy man to lose his thumb and several others to be injured, is not an armed attack that may trigger the Philippines’ Mutual Defense Treaty with the superpower United States, Malacañang said on Friday.

In a news conference, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the incident was ”probably a misunderstanding or accident.”

”No, well this was probably a misunderstanding or accident, we are not yet ready to classify this as an armed attack. I don’t know kung ‘yung mga nakita namin is mga bolo, ax, nothing beyond that,” Bersamin said. 

Bajo, A. F. (n.d.). Palace: China harassment at Ayungin not an armed attack. GMA News Online . Retrieved June 21, 2024, from https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/910824/palace-latest-ayungin-incident-not-an-armed-attack-a-misunderstanding/story/

Earlier today, 21 June 2024, in our WPS.NEWS Podcast, Go/No-Go War Wagons, we addressed the headlines we were seeing generated from the extremely serious incident between the Chinese and the Philippines on 17 June 2024. You can listen to the Podcast here.

Tonight’s WPS News Response

In the turbulent waters of the West Philippine Sea, a recent incident has reignited tensions between China and the Philippines, raising concerns about transparency, accountability, and the future of the region. On June 17, 2024, armed Chinese Coast Guard personnel attacked Filipino sailors on a resupply mission to Siera Madera on the Second Thomas Shoal, injuring several sailors and severing one sailor’s thumb. The confrontation escalated as the Chinese forces boarded Philippines vessels illegally, seizing disassembled weapons and engaging in a violent clash with unarmed Filipino sailors who fought back with bare hands.

Corrales, N. (2024, June 20). AFP chief: China Coast Guard used bolos, acted like pirates. Inquirer.Net. Retrieved June 21, 2024, from https://www.inquirer.net/406814/afp-chief-china-coast-guard-used-bolos-acted-like-pirates/

The response from the Marcos government, characterizing the incident as an accident, has been met with skepticism, prompting questions about the transparency and credibility of official statements. While diplomatic resolutions are crucial, transparency and honesty are essential in fostering trust and ensuring that national interests are safeguarded.

Major General Romeo Brawner Jr., from the AFP Western Command, recounted the harrowing events, stating that the Chinese Coast Guard personnel attacked with bolos, spears, and knives, while emphasizing that the Filipino sailors, who were unarmed, fought back with bare hands. Torres, under Westcom guidelines, reiterated that no firearms would be handled or shown to the Chinese Coast Guard personnel who were illegally present at the Second Thomas Shoal.

Drawing parallels to historical events like Neville Chamberlain’s appeasement of Hitler serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of compromising long-term security for short-term peace. It underscores the importance of standing firm on principles and upholding international norms in the face of external threats.

The cultural and political dynamics within the Philippines play a significant role in shaping responses to such incidents. Historical experiences, geopolitical considerations, and domestic politics influence how territorial disputes and foreign relations are navigated. Understanding these factors is crucial in addressing the complexities of the West Philippine Sea conflict.

Additionally, the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs’ decision to halt communication with China due to their lack of civility in the West Philippine Sea underscores the necessity of holding all parties accountable for their actions. Diplomatic efforts, multilateral engagements, and strategic partnerships can play a pivotal role in resolving disputes and protecting national interests.

As the West Philippine Sea dispute continues to unfold, it is imperative for the Philippines to remain vigilant, united, and proactive in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. By advocating for transparency, accountability, and adherence to international laws, the Philippines can work towards a future where stability, security, and respect for sovereignty prevail in the region.

In the face of challenges and uncertainties, staying informed, engaged, and proactive is key to navigating the complexities of the West Philippine Sea disputes. By raising awareness, fostering discussions, and advocating for principled actions, we can strive towards a future where peace, security, and cooperation define the relationships in the region.