MANILA, Philippines — China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has “mischaracterized” the Philippines’ rotation and resupply mission (RoRe) in the West Philippine Sea and belied claims that the country informed China of the mission prior to the operations, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.
“Instead of acknowledging how two countries were able to manage differences in order to avoid miscalculation and misunderstanding, the spokesperson chose to misrepresent what has been agreed between the Philippines and China regarding RORE missions in Ayungin Shoal,” DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said Sunday.
Earlier, Beijing claimed that Manila informed China before conducting the resupply mission for the BRP Sierra Madre last week, adding that after the China Coast Guard “confirmed” on the scene that the Philippines carried living supplies only, the Chinese Coast Guard “let the vessel through.”
The DFA refuted China’s assertions that prior notification and onsite inspection for resupply missions were part of the provisional agreement with the Philippines.
On Saturday, China reiterated its claim that it had been informed by the Philippines and had agreed to onsite inspection.
“Let us make it absolutely clear: the understanding between the Philippines and China was concluded in good faith, with the explicit agreement that it will not prejudice national positions,” Daza said.
It is unhelpful to continue spreading false notions about what has been agreed upon and how these agreements were implemented, the DFA said.
Tug of war
Both China and the Philippines remain in touch with their previous dialogue of handling the territorial and maritime issues between the two states through “dialogue” and “consultation.”
Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said in a separate statement that the Philippines should “honor its commitment” and not ship construction materials in the disputed maritime area.
He also hit the United States and said it should refrain from undermining stability in the region.
“The US side should not take any more action to fan the flames, stir up trouble, or undermine maritime stability,” Lin said in an X (formerly Twitter) post.
