For the sixth time since July 2024, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard have reportedly successfully conducted a rotation and resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal on March 4, without any untoward incidents.
The rotation and resupply (RORE) mission was carried out using M/V Lapu-Lapu, which docked alongside BRP Sierra Madre. According to the military, in a statement, no untoward incidents occurred during the operation.
“The completion of this mission reaffirms the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) commitment not only to supporting our defenders in the WPS but more importantly to upholding the Philippines’ sovereignty and sovereign rights—not only for today’s generation but for those to come,” the AFP said.
It can be recalled that the RORE missions on July 27, September 26, November 14, and December 12, 2024, as well as on January 24 and March 4, 2025, were all completed without incident.
Located in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Ayungin Shoal (often called Second Thomas Shoal) is a point of contention among maritime nations.
It is inside the EEZ of the Philippines and is also claimed by China. A navy warship from World War II, the BRP Sierra Madre, was stranded on the shoal in 1999 by the Philippines to demonstrate its sovereignty.
They stationed Filipino soldiers on the ship, the Philippines is bolstering its territorial claims in the region.
Given its isolated position and the difficulties arising from China’s growing influence in the area, the AFP and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) consistently carry out RORE missions to guarantee that the personnel stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre are provided with food, water, and other essential supplies.
The Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and maritime militia have responded to these missions with harassment, employing tactics such as water cannons, blocking maneuvers, and perilous encounters.
