The Philippine government will deploy vessels to the West Philippine Sea (WPS) to secure participants of the Atin Ito Coalition’s third civilian-led mission, scheduled from May 26 to 30.
This move follows the latest Chinese aggression near Sandy Cay, where a China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel used water cannons and sideswiped a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ship.
Philippine Coast Guard WPS spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela clarified that while the mission is not government-led, authorities will send 197-meter and 44-meter vessels for safety. “The Atin Ito expedition is not initiated by the government. I just have to be very clear on that. This is not an operation led by the government,” he said. “We’re just there to ensure the safety and security of those who will be attending.”
Despite tensions, Atin Ito will proceed with its peace-centered voyage. Convenor Rafaela David said, “We proceed as planned, and we hope to conduct our musical event, ideally and safely within the vicinity of Pagasa Island. Ang dala natin ay kapayapaan sa pamamagitan ng musika, hindi lenguwahe ng giyera.” She emphasized the mission’s purpose: “What happened yesterday at Sandy Cay all the more highlights the need for this civilian-led mission in the WPS, and to impress upon China that Filipinos and citizens of other nations want peace in the region.”
On Thursday, BFAR’s BRP Datu Sanday sustained damage after being hit twice by water cannon blasts and sideswiped by CCG vessel 21559 during a routine scientific mission near Pag-asa Cay 2. BFAR reported, “This incident marks the first time water cannons have been used against DA-BFAR research vessels in the area of the Pag-Asa Cays.”
China’s CCG claimed the Philippine vessels “illegally intruded” into waters near Subi Reef and Sandy Cay and blamed Manila for the collision. Atin Ito reiterated that safety measures are in place and reaffirmed the mission’s goal of peaceful civilian presence in the disputed waters.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Gov’t vessels to secure ‘Atin Ito’ convoy in next voyage to West Philippine Sea.”