Philippines rejects China claim, says Sierra Madre is 'permanent station'

The Philippine government has reiterated its stance that the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded vessel in Ayungin Shoal, serves as a permanent military station tasked with protecting and securing the country's rights and interests in the West Philippine Sea.

China has demanded the removal of the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, claiming it is 'illegally landed', but the DFA maintains that these activities are legitimate under domestic and international law.

The Philippines deployed a permanent station on Ayungin Shoal in 1999 in response to China's occupation of Mischief Reef, asserting its rights within its exclusive economic zone as per UNCLOS.