Rotation, resupply mission in WPS is Philippines’ duty, says AFP spox

MANILA, Philippines — It is solely the Philippines’ duty to undertake rotation and resupply (RoRe) missions to the West Philippine Sea, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar.

When asked if the Philippines needed help from the United States (US) during its supply runs, Aguilar said that it was entirely the country’s duty.

“Our RoRe mission is for us to undertake,” said Aguilar at the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon public briefing.

The Philippines has faced continuous harassment from China during its missions to the heavily contested waters.

In October, Philippine and Chinese vessels collided in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines has called the clash an escalation of illegal activities from Beijing.

“It is for our country to make sure that we fulfill our responsibility being bestowed with the sovereign rights and jurisdiction. To ensure that we are able to harvest or to benefit from the resources therein, we have to make sure that environmental protection programs are being implemented, and at the same time, we also have to ensure the safety of those who navigate in the particular area. This is our obligation,” said Aguilar.

The US had repeatedly reiterated its “ironclad” defense commitment to the Philippines in the face of Chinese aggression.

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