BRP Sierra Madre troops see holiday treat in Dec. 23 supply mission

MANILA, Philippines — Personnel of BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal saw an annual lechon treat marking the Christmas season. 

The whole roasted pig is among the holiday treats included in the “critical sustainment mission” for the grounded naval outpost last Dec. 23, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“More than a logistical success, it symbolizes the nation extending its hand to those who stand the watch, bringing a piece of home to the frontlines and reminding every soldier that their sacrifice is seen, honored and deeply valued,” the AFP said in a statement on Thursday.

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Western Command Commander Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr. led the delivery of supplies, Christmas packages, and medical services in BRP Sierra Madre.

The World War II-era warship has been aground in an elevated part of the shoal since 1999 to become a naval outpost there.

Aside from BRP Sierra Madre troops, also among those supported are personnel stationed in maritime features Pag-asa, Panata, Rizal Reef, Kota, Parola, Lawak, Likas, and Patag, according to the AFP.

Manila is holding the line as Beijing asserts sovereignty in almost the entire South China Sea, including most of the in the West Philippine Sea as, even if such a claim has been effectively invalidated by a July 2016 arbitral award. /mr