The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) successfully completed a resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, West Philippine Sea, on Thursday, November 14, without any untoward incidents.
In a statement released today, the AFP confirmed that the mission, which included the regular rotation and reprovisioning of supplies for Philippine troops stationed at the site, was completed smoothly.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) joined the AFP in carrying out the resupply mission, which is vital to ensure the continued presence and welfare of the personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre.
The Philippine military assured that it will continue to uphold its mandate to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and ensure the welfare of the personnel deployed in the West Philippine Sea.
BRP Sierra Madre, a former Philippine Navy vessel, has been intentionally grounded at Ayungin Shoal since 1999 to assert the Philippines’ territorial claim over the disputed area in the Spratlys.
The ship serves as a permanent station for Filipino troops in the region, despite facing numerous challenges, including attempts by China to prevent access to the shoal.
The mission was a crucial operation to maintain the logistical needs of the troops and to ensure that the Philippines remains firmly in control of its territories in the face of ongoing regional tensions.