AFP maintains patrols at Scarborough Shoal after Chinese provocations

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will maintain its patrol and surveillance operations in Scarborough Shoal following recent provocative actions by China's air force.

On Saturday, August 8, 2024, two PLAAF aircraft conducted dangerous maneuvers and dropped flares near a Philippine Air Force NC-212i conducting routine maritime patrols over Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal).

Despite no harm to personnel, General Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasized that the Chinese aircraft interfered with lawful flight operations and violated international aviation safety laws.

AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Padilla reiterated that China's actions contravene international law and regulations on aviation safety, underscoring the Philippines' determination to continue routine surveillance operations in its maritime territories.

The AFP has reported the incident to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and relevant agencies, while Philippine forces will continue routine patrols to safeguard territorial integrity and assert sovereign rights.

In response to China's claims that the maneuvers were consistent with international laws and that PAF intruded into Chinese territory, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. denounced PLAAF actions as 'unjustified, illegal and reckless.'

The Philippines has filed a diplomatic protest against China after Beijing's air force performed dangerous actions in Scarborough Shoal, reaffirming its commitment to the 2016 international court ruling that upholds Philippine sovereignty over the disputed area.