The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday maintained it will continue conducting maritime patrols despite the recent involving two Chinese military aircrafts over Bajo de Masinloc.
Armed Forces spokesperson Colonel Margareth Padilla said that the Philippine Air Force (PAF) plane received two radio challenges from the Chinese aircrafts while conducting a routine patrol over the area last Thursday.
“We responded according to our standard operating procedures and we reaffirmed that we’re conducting a lawful maritime patrol within our Philippine exclusive economic zone and itong ginagawa natin is in compliance with international law including the principle of freedom of navigation and flight,” asserted Padilla in an interview.
“Itong ating Airforce NC-212i was conducting a routine mid maritime patrol sa ating area ng Bajo de Masinloc, noong naobserve nilang may dalawang aircraft ng PLA Airforce nga na nag-execute ng dangerous maneuver. Around 9 a.m. ito. Nagdrop sila ng flare sa path ng ating NC-212i,” she added.
The flares posed dangers on the propeller driven NC-212i.
“‘Yung insidente na paglipad na malapit sa ating aircraft post a threat sa ating PAF aircraft at sa kanilang crew. Nag-interfere sa lawful flight operation sa airspace ng ating Philippine sovereignty and jurisdiction,” said Padilla.
The PAF airplane eventually managed to return to Clark Air Base with its personnel unharmed.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and the AFP already condemned the said incident.
