Philippines, China reach deal on Ayungin missions

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and China have agreed on an “arrangement” for resupplying Filipino troops stationed on BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

“The Philippines and the People’s Republic of China have reached an understanding on the provisional arrangement for the resupply of daily necessities and rotation missions to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal,” the DFA said yesterday.

This was achieved after a series of consultations following the frank and constructive discussions between the two sides during the 9th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea in Manila on July 2, the DFA noted.

“Both sides continue to recognize the need to de-escalate the situation in the South China Sea and manage differences through dialogue and consultation and agree that the agreement will not prejudice each other’s positions in the South China Sea,” the DFA said.

The Philippines and China also signed an agreement elevating the officials who may use an emergency hotline concerning incidents in the South China Sea to the highest level, involving presidential offices and foreign ministries of the two countries.

The DFA said the “Arrangement on Improving Philippines-China Maritime Communication Mechanisms,” signed during crucial talks held in Manila on July 2 following
 a violent confrontation at the Ayungin Shoal, would provide various “channels for communication” between the two nations, specifically on maritime issues.

The hotline talks could also be done through the DFA and China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including foreign minister and vice foreign minister levels, or their designated representatives.Coast guard channels will be established following a corresponding memorandum of understanding between the two sides.The DFA is in discussions with the Chinese side on guidelines that will govern the implementation of this arrangement.

Resupply missions to troops on Sierra Madre will remain a “purely Philippine operation,” National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said yesterday after the US vowed to “do what is necessary” to support them.

“RORE (rotation and resupply mission) will remain to be a