Philippine troops at West Philippine Sea features safe despite bad weather

The Philippine Navy reported on Tuesday that military personnel manning nine features in the West Philippine Sea, including those aboard BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, are safe despite recent bad weather caused by the enhanced southwest monsoon.

Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad stated during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo that rough seas and above-normal wind conditions have been experienced but did not affect troop safety or security.

Supplies for all troops, including those scheduled for the next rotation on June 20th, are sufficient to last until the next resupply mission, ensuring readiness despite inclement weather.

BRP Sierra Madre has been stationed at Ayungin Shoal since 1999 and serves as a symbol of Philippine sovereignty in the South China Sea.

Tensions remain high due to ongoing territorial disputes between multiple nations including the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, and China.

The number of Chinese vessels in the area is expected to decrease during periods of bad weather, though full monitoring is limited by current conditions.