AFP completes rotation and resupply mission at Ayungin Shoal without incidents

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) completed a recent rotation and resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal on November 14 without any incidents.

This mission, supported by the Philippine Coast Guard, marks the third such operation since Manila and Beijing reached a provisional agreement in October to avoid incidents near Ayungin Shoal.

Ayungin Shoal is located within the Philippines' 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and has been occupied by the BRP Sierra Madre since 1999, serving as a symbol of Philippine sovereignty.

The previous mission on September 26 was also completed without incidents, while the July 27 mission was followed by a violent confrontation in June where Chinese forces blocked and boarded Filipino vessels during a supply run, resulting in injuries to Filipino personnel.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) welcomed the successful mission and emphasized the AFP's commitment to safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and ensuring the welfare of its stationed personnel.

China continues to claim almost all of the South China Sea, including Ayungin Shoal, despite a 2016 Arbitral Award affirming the Philippines' maritime entitlements in what it calls the West Philippine Sea.