Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. has issued a stark warning regarding China's potential actions in the West Philippine Sea, labeling any attempt to forcibly tow the grounded BRP Sierra Madre as an 'act of war.'
This declaration follows reports from a Manila-based Chinese newspaper suggesting that China is considering removing the vessel from Ayungin Shoal as part of ten proposed countermeasures against the Philippines.
Any threat against BRP Sierra Madre will be taken very seriously because it will be an act against a military vessel of the Republic of the Philippines.
Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Defense Secretary
The BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II-era ship, has served as a military outpost since it was intentionally run aground in 1999. This was a strategic move following China's occupation of Panganiban Reef, highlighting the long-standing territorial disputes between the two nations.
Teodoro emphasized that any attempt to board the Sierra Madre would be viewed as an offensive act, though he clarified that it does not equate to a formal state of war. He noted that only the President and Congress have the authority to declare war.
When questioned about the implications for the Philippines' Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States, Teodoro stated that the possibility of invoking the treaty remains open, although the final decision lies with President Marcos.
The ongoing tensions have been marked by increasingly hostile exchanges between Philippine officials and Chinese diplomats, particularly following remarks from Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan, which some lawmakers interpreted as threats.
Teodoro cautioned against over-reliance on China, urging both government and private sectors to diversify supply chains and strengthen domestic industries to mitigate the risks associated with economic leverage in territorial disputes.
In light of these challenges, Teodoro called for an overhaul of the military modernization law, arguing that the current funding measures are inadequate for the realities of modern defense needs.