Mariing pinabulaanan ni Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) na tinutukan ng armas ng mga sundalong Pinoy ang mga tauhan ng China Coast Guard (CCG) nang halos magdikit ang kanilang mga barko sa West Philippine Sea (WPS) kamakailan.
“Our personnel are governed by the Rules of Engagement (ROE) and clearly acted with the highest level of professionalism, restraint and discipline in the performance of their mission to safeguard our sovereignty and sovereign rights,” ayon kay AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner.
Sa halip, sinisi ni Brawner ang crew ng CCG dahil masyadong idinikit ang barko nila sa barko ng AFP, dahilan upang maging alerto ang mga sundalong Pinoy.
“Foreign vessels that venture dangerously close to our military vessel in violation of safe distance protocols necessitate heightened vigilance and alertness from our personnel. Hence, our troops were seen on guard because of the CCG’s provocative presence near BRP Sierra Madre,” giit ni Brawner.
“Any aggressive actions that threaten this peace and safety of our troops and stations will be met with the necessary and appropriate measures,” dagdag ng AFP chief.