PH ‘concerned but not nervous’ over China, Vietnam tensions

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Amidst the rising tension between China and Vietnam in the South China Sea, the Department of National Defense is on calm waters despite the volatile situation in the region.

During the induction of the new officers of the Defense Press Corps on Wednesday, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said they would still continue their job of bringing supplies and changing the men in the stationary BRP Sierra Madre who are defending the Philippines’ claim on the Ayungin Shoal.

“We are concerned but not nervous because it is still our responsibility to resupply and change the troops stationed there,” Gazmin said.

On May 26, Hanoi accused a Chinese vessel of sinking a Vietnamese fishing boat then fleeing from the scene.

Gazmin said that the Department of Foreign Affairs would file a protest if such an incident happens to Filipinos.

“Anything can happen, we are preparing contingencies for these kinds of situations,” Gazmin said.

He added that the Philippine Coast Guard escorts Filipino fishing vessels during their operations to prevent any harassment.

RELATED STORIES

Vietnam accuses China of sinking fishing boat 

China tells Vietnam: Stop resistance, you are only harming yourself