Philippine government maintains non-provocative stance at Scarborough Shoal

The Philippine government remains committed to its non-provocative stance in the West Philippine Sea, particularly at Bajo de Masinloc or Scarborough Shoal.

National Maritime Council (NMC) spokesperson Undersecretary Alexander Lopez emphasized during a press conference that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has clearly instructed not to provoke China and deploy Navy ships to Panatag Shoal.

Deploying Navy vessels could increase the risk of miscalculation or misjudgment, according to Lopez, who noted that it is currently more prudent for civilian maritime agencies like the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to lead operations.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela assured that contingency measures are in place should tensions further escalate, ensuring deployment of skilled personnel near Bajo de Masinloc while protecting local fishing activities.

China's recent harassment has prompted the Philippines to avoid sending Navy vessels and maintain a cautious approach to prevent escalation and potential miscalculation.