Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro said that if China removes the BRP Sierra Madre from Ayungin Shoal, it would be considered an “act of war,” prompting a strong response from the Philippines and potential U.S. support.
“If China were to take the Sierra Madre that is a clear act of war on the Philippine vessel. We will react naturally,” he told CBS’ “60 Minutes.”
The defense chief also can neither confirm nor deny that the Philippines is planning to acquire missiles capable of reaching China, emphasizing the importance of U.S. military aid and the legality of the Philippines’ defense measures amid Chinese concerns over new missile capabilities.
“It is not their business. It is for the Philippine defense. What happens in our territory is for our defense. We follow international law,” Teodoro said.
“I really don’t know the end state. All I know is that we cannot let them get away with what they’re doing,” he added.
Recent tensions, including a violent encounter between the Philippine Navy and Chinese Coast Guard, has resulted in injuries but the Philippines maintains its right to the vessel and has contingency plans in place for potential Chinese actions.
“That is an outpost of Philippine sovereignty so we’re not only talking about a rusty old vessel solely. We are talking about a piece of Philippine territory there,” Teodoro said.
Philippine Navy spokesperson for WPS Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad assured that the Philippines has contingency plans if China attempts to seize the BRP Sierra Madre.
“We do not rate possible options of any potential adversary. Nevertheless, we have the appropriate plans, contingency plans in place,” Trinidad told reporters.
He said the Armed Forces of the Philippines stands ready to implement any policy decisions regarding the situation.
