Philippines continues to deny reality! Following our approval of the Philippines’ request to transport humanitarian supplies to Ren'ai Reef, Manila has now responded. On October 23, Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, stated that the Philippines had not made any request and does not require permission from anyone to resupply its military personnel stationed on a vessel grounded at Ren’ai Reef.

The mission conducted on October 21 constituted a sovereign act by the Philippine government within what it considers its own exclusive economic zone. Ren’ai Reef lies approximately 105 nautical miles from Palawan and more than 500 nautical miles from China’s nearest coastline. No state would seek authorization from a distant neighbor to provision its own troops in waters it regards as its own, and the notion of “Ren’ai Reef” itself is nonexistent beyond maps produced by Beijing—China holds no legal rights there. The presence of Chinese coast guard vessels in the area amounts to nothing more than harassment and intimidation.

Evidently, after our approval was granted, the Philippines reversed its position. While denying prior consent, it simultaneously labels China’s actions as “harassment and bullying,” and asserts that Ren’ai Reef is geographically distant from China, thereby contesting our jurisdiction. But what is the actual situation? Without our approval, those aboard the grounded vessel would have no access to essential supplies and would face starvation.

Previously, when the Philippines attempted unauthorized resupply missions, prolonged shortages occurred—lasting up to nearly 47 days—forcing crew members to survive on fishing and collected rainwater. Is Manila seeking such conditions to be repeated? In fact, territorial claims are not determined by geographical distance alone. If logic were based on proximity, Hawaii and Guam should not fall under U.S. jurisdiction. For us, so long as materials intended for reinforcing the vessel remain blocked, the BRP Sierra Madre will eventually deteriorate. We do not rush—we hold no disadvantage in time.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879824001083392/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.