Philippines and China exchange accusations over West Philippine Sea claims

Tensions continue to escalate between the Philippines and China regarding maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea. The Chinese Embassy in Manila and Philippine officials have exchanged accusations of spreading disinformation.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela expressed frustration over countering what he described as Beijing’s lies, stating that the fight for truth is essential for future generations. In response, Chinese Embassy Deputy Spokesperson Guo Wei accused Tarriela of fabricating narratives to stir public sentiment and undermine China-Philippines relations.

Separately, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) rejected claims from the Chinese Embassy regarding the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal. AFP spokesperson Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad stated that no binding commitment was ever made to remove the grounded vessel, which serves as a military outpost. Trinidad accused Beijing of attempting to “rewrite history” and cited China’s previous deceptive tactics, such as the transformation of Mischief Reef into a military installation after initially claiming it was for fishers.