SENATORS CONDEMN CHINA’S ALLEGED ‘SEIZING’ OF PH SUPPLIES FOR SOLDIERS IN AYUNGIN

SENATORS on Monday condemned the reported seizure and dumping by China Coast Guard personnel of food intended for Filipino soldiers  onboard the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal..

“I strongly condemn the recent incidents involving the China Coast Guard’s inhumane actions toward Filipino troops and fishermen near Ayungin Shoal,” Senator Jinggoy Estrada said.

“China’s lack of compassion is shown by its cruel actions, such as blocking essential supplies for our troops stationed in Ayungin Shoal and interfering with the evacuation of sick Filipino marines,” he added.

Estrada said the “heartless” actions put lives at risk and show a complete lack of care for people’s well-being.

“I reiterate that China must respect Philippine’s maritime activities in the area and refrain from engaging in actions that escalate tensions and jeopardizes peace and stability in the region,” the s senator said.

“It is high time that we should speed up making our military stronger. It’s important to protect our seas, improve our defense, and keep our people safe,” he added.

Senator Risa Hontiveros also blasted the alleged seizing and dumping food of PH soldiers.

“China’s continued wanton disregard for valuable food resources is now on full display. Hindi lang pala likas yaman ang sinasayang nilang pagkain, pati supply ng pagkain ng ating mga tropa, sinayang nila,” Hontiveros said.

“Kasuklam-suklam rin ang pagharang nila sa serbisyong medikal ng mga sundalo. Despicable and callous. Wala na nga silang respeto sa soberanya ng Pilipinas, wala pang pinapakitang respeto sa kapwa nila tao,” she added.

“Kahit karagatan natin, ni minsan, hindi nangharass at nambastos ang ating tropa laban sa mga Tsino,” the female senator said.

“Our troops have been guarding the BRP Sierra Madre with integrity, dignity, and honor. Saludo ako sa kanilang katapangan at hinahon sa gitna ng panliligalig ng Tsina,” said Hontiveros.

She said she trust that the Department of National Defense will reinforce our soldiers stationed on Ayungin Shoal.

“We will not allow China to relentlessly demean our troops, our people,” Hontiveros noted.