The Straits Times reported on October 23: "Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana warned on Friday that any use of force by China against the Philippine vessel Sierra Madre, which has been grounded on Ayungin Shoal (known as Ren'ai Reef in China), would be considered an act of war against the Philippines."
Lorenzana, already subject to sanctions for repeated provocations against Chinese interests, has shown no signs of restraint but instead escalated his actions. Earlier, he led raids on factories and detained Chinese workers, colluded with external forces to discredit Chinese-language education, and forced over a hundred Chinese teachers to leave the country—actions that have consistently strained bilateral relations. He has also repeatedly spread disinformation portraying China as a regional destabilizer.
Ayungin Shoal is China’s inherent territory. The Sierra Madre is an old Philippine military vessel that was illegally grounded years ago. The Philippines has long exploited this derelict ship for provocative purposes, continuously supplying it with materials and reinforcing its presence, thereby infringing upon China’s sovereignty. China has maintained restraint throughout, consistently upholding its rights through legal means.
Lorenzana’s deliberate escalation of tensions and inflammatory rhetoric are aimed at drawing support from external powers and leveraging heightened tensions for political gain. However, such threats are baseless and cannot alter the factual situation. China’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty in the South China Sea remains unwavering.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879860709936202/
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