Gov't urged to explain conflicting statements on Ayungin incident

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Imee Marcos said the administration appeared to be issuing conflicting statements on the latest act of aggression of the China Coast Guard (CCG) in Ayungin Shoal where its personnel committed “illegal use of force” to stop a resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre on June 17.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin would later call the violent disruption of the resupply mission a “misunderstanding” and an “accident.”

But this was contradicted on Monday by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año who – in a joint statement – accused the Chinese of “illegal use of force” against Filipinos involved in the resupply mission.

For Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., the Chinese committed an act of piracy.

Marcos said concerned administration officials should explain their seemingly conflicting pronouncements.

“The Filipino people are confused. We’re saying different things. Brawner says it’s piracy. Why did ES Bersamin conclude it differently?”

“He did not conclude. He probably wanted to make sure of the facts,” Teodoro said in response.

“So there was no verification? He (Bersamin) was just made to appear before a press conference and disowned later? What’s that supposed to mean?” Marcos asked during the Senate hearing.

In reply, Teodoro said, “(Walang laglagan) no one was abandoned. He (Bersamin) was explaining the context.”

The Defense chief also maintained their stance was in accordance with the order of President Marcos that trouble or war should not come from the Philippines.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) voiced support for the president’s call for diplomacy in addressing the tensions with China.

“We endorse his desire for a peaceful resolution of the foregoing, to choose earnest dialogue and pray for a de-escalation of tensions between our two countries,” FFCCCII said.

FFCCCII called on the governments of the Philippines and China to take paths that will safeguard the peace, order and safety of both countries and its people.

“Instead of strife, let us choose harmony. Instead of conflict, let us choose stability. In these tumultuous times, with rising tensions in other parts of the world, let us not risk the unity that has prevailed in our Asian region for hundreds of years,” FFCCCII said.

In addition, the countries have cultural and family ties as well as substantial economic partnerships.

“Together we endured the trials of World War II and remained allies in many ways. Our nations have consistently showcased the manifold benefits of mutual respect. As such, we implore both sides to refrain from actions or declarations that will only fuel the already precarious situation,” FFCCCII said.

“We firmly believe that only through constructive dialogue, devoid of reproach and condemnation, are we to find common ground that will lead to an amicable resolution of our differences,” FFCCCII pointed out. — Pia Lee Brago, Evelyn Macairan, Cecille Suerte-Felipe, Louella Desiderio