Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 14) — The National Security Council (NSC) said that the Philippine government is gearing up for another resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal amid another possible reaction or opposition from China.
NSC Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said that the government is committed to bring the much-needed supplies to Filipino troops there despite the firing of a water cannon and dangerous maneuvering of the Chinese Coast Guard last August 5.
“Hindi tayo titigil. We will do what is necessary to provide our troops with supply and we will be ready with any eventualities but we will not back down kasi atin ‘yan,” Malaya said.
[Translation: We will not stop. We will do what is necessary to provide our troops with supplies and we will be ready with any eventualities but we will not back down.]
The NSC however said that they will no longer give additional information for ‘security reasons’. The NSC also defended the strong statements issued by government officials in defending the Philippines over Ayungin Shoal.
“All our statements were consistent with President Marcos’ guidance and we have regular consultations with the NTF-WPS and with the Office of the President,” Malaya said.
“We don’t go beyond what the President wants us to say and it’s always consistent with the guidance of the President,” he added. The Philippine government also reiterated its willingness to dialogue with China.
