PH, Japan defense forces condemn China’s aggression in WPS

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces were concerned over the recent aggression by the China Coast Guard (CCG) after Filipino and Chinese vessels collided in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. 

In a statement on Thursday, AFP Chief-of-Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. and Japan Self-Defense Forces Chief-of-Staff General Yoshihide Yoshida met via video call to discuss future partnership following the maritime incident that injured several Filipino troops. 

“We are very thankful for the support that Japan is giving us. Japan was one of the first countries that gave its support condemning the actions of CCG,” said Brawner. 

Meanwhile, Japan expressed continuous support to the Philippines. 

“JSDF always stands on the side of AFP, and JSDF will deepen its cooperation with the Philippines and like-minded countries,”  said Yoshida. 

In the photos shared by the AFP on Wednesday, CCG personnel were caught brandishing bladed and pointed weapons at Filipino troops on a routine rotation and resupply mission to the Ayungin Shoal on Monday. 

One of the pictures showed a CCG personnel with a pick axe allegedly threatening a Filipino soldier. 

A photo also showed how the Chinese personnel destroyed the navigational and communications equipment of the Filipino troops. 

The Philippines and Japan are reportedly set to finalize their reciprocal access deal in July, which would allow their military troops to train in each other’s territory amid the maritime tension between Manila and Beijing.—LDF, GMA Integrated News