No evidence of Chinese occupation of atoll—AFP

THE PALAWAN-BASED Western Command (Wescom) said it had checked reports that China had taken over the Quirino Atoll, a Philippine-claimed islet in the West Philippine Sea, but found no evidence of it so far.

Wescom spokesperson Cpt. Cheryl Tindog said its maritime patrol on Thursday did not spot any Chinese vessels in the vicinity of the contested atoll. She added that the Palawan-based military command would nonetheless remain vigilant in patrolling the West Philippine Sea.

Earlier this week, media reports claimed the Chinese took over Quirino Atoll (Jackson Atoll), a traditional fishing ground for Filipino fishermen.

The atoll is 133 nautical miles or 246 kilometers away from Rizal, Palawan.

“We remain vigilant in conducting maritime patrols in the entire West Philippine Sea as mandated, and support the country’s resolve to adhere to the rule of law and to not escalate tension,” Tindog said.

Fishermen had claimed that up to five Chinese vessels barred them from coming near the atoll, while China confirmed on Wednesday that it sent vessels to the atoll to tow a ship that run aground.

However, the Wescom maintained that it was not true that China had effectively taken over Quirino Atoll and although Chinese vessels had been sighted on and off in the area, Filipino fishing vessels have been able to conduct their activities unhampered.

“We urge all Filipinos to remain ever vigilant, especially our fishermen, and to report to appropriate authorities any incident or harassment they have personally experienced,” Tindog said.

At the same time, the Wescom urged the media “to be circumspect in their reporting so as not to create unnecessary public alarm.”