Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela firmly stated that China’s permission was not needed for a recent medical evacuation operation at Ayungin Shoal. The operation involved the transfer of two injured Navy personnel and was carried out within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
Operational Context and Tensions
The evacuation was initiated following an incident where Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) personnel allegedly attacked Philippine Navy troops. Tarriela clarified that the operation complied with international maritime laws, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
We don’t need any permission from anybody because this is being conducted within our Exclusive Economic Zone, and it is in accordance with Unclos and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
Rear Adm. Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard
During the evacuation, Tarriela noted that the CCG had broadcast messages identifying the mission as humanitarian. However, he rejected their claim of having granted permission, questioning the basis for such assertions.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian previously indicated that China would allow humanitarian missions provided the Philippines informs them in advance. Despite this, Tarriela emphasized that the PCG did not seek China's approval or cooperation during the evacuation.
In addition to the operational challenges, the PCG experienced significant communication disruptions while approaching Ayungin Shoal. Connectivity was lost for approximately five hours.
Following the incident, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. condemned China’s actions as illegal and aggressive. He reiterated the need for accountability while maintaining that the government would continue to pursue diplomatic engagement with China, emphasizing its importance in resolving ongoing tensions.