Estrada hits China’s dropping of flares in AFP plane’s path in Scarborough

Google map of Scarborough Shoal

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada urged the Chinese government to immediately stop its aggression against the country after the Armed Forces of the Philippines accused China’s air force of “dangerous and provocative actions” against one of the Philippine military planes patrolling the Scarborough Shoal.

In a statement on Sunday, Estrada described China’s actions as “reckless, provocative and unacceptable.”

READ: China air force harassed PH patrol aircraft over Scarborough Shoal – AFP

“They (China) must be met with firm and decisive condemnation from the international community,” the senator said.

“We urge the Chinese government to immediately stop this clear act of aggression and adhere to international law. This recent incident is a blatant violation of international aviation safety standards and the rights of all nations to carry out lawful maritime operations,” he added.

On Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said two of China’s air force aircraft “executed a dangerous maneuver and dropped flares in the path of its NC-212i.”

AFP said this action “endangered the lives of its personnel undertaking maritime security operations.”

“The dropping of flares in the path of the Philippine Air Force’s NC-212i is an affront to our sovereignty. The Philippines has always advocated for peaceful and diplomatic solutions to territorial disputes with China and this incident undermines our efforts in de-escalating unnecessary tensions,” Estrada said.

“We will not be intimidated. We will continue to defend our sovereignty with resolve and determination while remaining committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting peace in the region,” he added.