JAY DIRECTO / AFPTHE Philippine government will not abandon its military outpost at the Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), Malacañang said on Friday, after Chinese Coast Guard vessels "blocked and water-cannoned" Philippine supply boats from reaching the disputed area. According to Locsin, the Philippine boats were on their way to transport food to Philippine military personnel in Ayungin Shoal when they were "blocked and water-cannoned" by the foreign vessels. "The Philippines will continue to provide supplies to our troops in Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal). Ayungin Shoal, part of the Kalayaan Island Group, is an integral part of the Philippines, as well as the country's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. Hence, the Philippines has sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Ayungin Shoal.

Source: Manila Times November 19, 2021 22:09 UTC