MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that there are “no untoward incidents” reported during the rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) mission of the Philippines for military personnel stationed in BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on 27 July 2024.

According to the DFA, this is the first RORE mission conducted under the scope of the understanding reached between the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on “principles and approaches” for the conduct of RORE missions in Ayungin Shoal, the purpose of which is to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations, without prejudice to national positions.

The DFA also acknowledged the contributions of the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard and with the close coordination of the National Security Council and the Department of National Defense for the successful RORE mission.

“The lawful and routine RORE mission within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) is a credit to the professionalism of the men and women of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard, and the close coordination among the National Security Council, Department of National Defense and the Department of Foreign Affairs,” the DFA stated.

(Courtesy of DFA)

DFA also confirmed that no prior notification and no site inspection was done by the Chinese Coast Guard during the RORE mission.

When asked if the Philippine side delivered construction materials to the BRP Sierra Madre, DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita C. Daza clarified that the RORE was meant to “supply the necessary provisions to the personnel on board the Sierra Madre.”