West Philippine Sea: Imee Marcos calls for Senate investigation into Ayungin incident

MANILA, Philippines – Senator Imee Marcos has filed a resolution calling for an investigation into China’s recent aggressive actions at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Reef in the West Philippine Sea.

Marcos said the June 17 ramming incident between Chinese and Filipino ships needs to be investigated further as he filed Senate Resolution No. 155 on Thursday.

“The events of June 17, 2024, at Ayungin Reef must be further investigated to determine how the government can better protect Filipino soldiers and citizens during rotation and resupply missions to Ayungin Reef,” the resolution said.

“… and to determine what changes should be made to the current policies of the Philippine government to enable the country to assert its sovereign rights more effectively and securely,” it said.

READ: West Philippine Sea: Filipino sailors fought armed CCGs ‘with bare hands’

In the ramming incident on June 17 between Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels and Philippine boats during a supply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre, a Philippine Navy sailor had his thumb severed and several other naval personnel sustained minor injuries.

The Philippine military said the CCG also used water cannons and even boarded Philippine ships.

READ: PH Navy sailor loses thumb, others injured in CCG ramming incident

Senator Francis Tolentino had previously called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to convene the National Security Council to determine the country’s next steps in response to China’s aggression.

He described the incident as “disgusting” and “upsetting”.

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