The Philippine military is very concerned about China destroying the Philippine old warship that is stranded on Ren'ai Reef.

Headline news from the Manila Times reported that General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said to the forces stationed in China's Ren'ai Reef - to prevent the Chinese from boarding the Marinduque at all costs.

Brawner made this statement after monitoring an increase in Chinese vessels in the shallow waters of Ren'ai Reef on Wednesday, not only in number but also in combat capability.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines reported on Thursday that they witnessed five Chinese coast guard ships, 11 rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), and nine maritime militia vessels conducting drills and water cannon exercises.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines stated that these vessels also carried weapon systems, although no use of force, intimidation, or coercive actions was displayed.

Brawner said that China establishing a foothold on the Marinduque is a possibility that the armed forces will not allow.

"If they do so, we will stop them. Boarding our ship is like entering our territory," Brawner said.

He said that this means Philippine soldiers can now use "appropriate force" within the rules of engagement.

Although Brawner agreed that tensions are escalating, increasing military deployments in the area has not yet been considered.

But even so, the troops stationed in the area face difficulties bravely and fight with all their might, "we continue to push them out."

However, Brawner said that the Armed Forces of the Philippines are prepared for any possible situation and have taken contingency measures when tensions escalate into war. He said that even in tense situations, the agency will never abandon its "responsibility" over Ren'ai Reef.

"We have the right to protect our soldiers on the ship stranded on Ren'ai Reef, we have the right to provide supplies for them, and we ensure that we take care of their well-being," Brawner said.

Since the Philippine government stranded a warship on Ren'ai Reef, the country has been emboldened to attempt to occupy the reef.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841191997488140/

Statement: The article represents the views of the author.