West PH Sea: No threats to Filipino troops ‘at this time’ – Teodoro

SEE THING CONTENTION After Monday’s ramming of a Philippine Coast Guard vessel at Escoda (Sabina) Shoal, concerns over China’s sincerity in keeping regional tensions down shift back to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, site of the rusting Philippine military outpost, the BRP Sierra Madre. —NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — No threats have been detected against Philippine troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal despite reports of increased Chinese vessel presence in the area, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said Monday.

He made the statement in an ambush interview during the National Heroes Day celebration at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.

“At this time, there’s none. We’re not seeing anything,” Teodoro responded when asked if the troops are facing any dangers, adding, “but of course, laging listo (always alert).”

READ: Philippine Navy: Chinese moves near Ayungin Shoal ‘unusual’

Teodoro also clarified that there is no confirmed information suggesting that the Chinese vessels are carrying heavy weapons, urging the public to be wary of fake news.

“We have no confirmed information about that, and we should be cautious of fake news. Just like weeks ago when it was claimed that the [BRP] Sierra Madre had been towed,” he said, refuting the claims.

On Friday, Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad reported sightings of at least 25 Chinese vessels and two aircraft near Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal.

READ: Philippines condemns China’s swarm of forces near disputed shoal

The sightings, which started on Thursday, included 11 smaller service boats, five larger ships, and nine maritime militia vessels, along with a helicopter and a drone.

“It is unusual, although we are used to them,” Trinidad said.

“It’s unusual for them to show weapons, to drop nets that can impede watercraft, and to demonstrate their water cannons,” he added. /dl