SUMMARY
The BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal is the symbol of our commitment to defend our sovereignty and protect our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). On the downside, our approach to it also reflects the lack of coherence in the government’s strategy in the face of Beijing’s coercive tactics at sea. On the upside, it reflects the “do or die” attitude of Filipinos in fighting for what they believe is right – despite the challenges they face.
June 17, 2024 will serve as the defining moment for Filipinos. The attack of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) against the Philippine Navy’s Special Operations Group is not simply about the disruption of a resupply mission nor a blatant disregard for basic rules governing state forces. One sailor suffered the loss of one finger, bu…