SINGAPORE — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned that China’s recent obstruction of a medical evacuation at Ayungin Shoal signals a troubling shift in maritime tensions, describing the incident as a “new phase in escalation” in the West Philippine Sea.
Speaking during a press briefing in Singapore on Sunday, October 11, the President expressed deep concern over the near 10-hour delay experienced by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on October 8. The mission aimed to evacuate a sick Philippine Navy sailor stationed aboard the grounded BRP Sierra Madre.
Marcos questioned the humanitarian implications of the blockage, noting that even basic rules of conflict protect medical missions.
“Kahit giyera, yung Red Cross pinapadaan, eh. Tayo, hindi tayo pinapadaan para sunduin yung may sakit,” Marcos said.
The President emphasized that the Philippines rejects Beijing’s newly imposed demands for permission to operate within Philippine waters.
“Walang required-required. Ito, dagat namin ito; anong required?” he stated, reacting to continuous radio challenges from Chinese forces.
While acknowledging that Manila does not seek Beijing’s authorization, Marcos stressed that crew safety remains a top priority to prevent past injuries from recurring.
“Ayaw naman natin may masaktan pa. Nangyari na sa atin ‘yan,” he noted.
Despite increasing operational hurdles and stricter requirements enforced by Chinese vessels, Marcos reaffirmed that the Philippines will continue its routine procedures, such as issuing standard notices, while rallying support from international allies.
“Mabuti na lang at marami tayong kakampi,” he said, while praising the unwavering resilience of Filipino fishermen and Coast Guard personnel.
Marcos added that this distressing event will inevitably become a key talking point in upcoming diplomatic discussions with Beijing, particularly concerning the long-delayed Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.