Marcos sees ‘new phase’ of escalation in West Philippine Sea

President Marcos admits escalation of tensions in Ayungin

Days after the Chinese coast guard blocked the medical evacuation of a Filipino soldier on Ayungin Shoal, President Marcos said tensions in the area have escalated, as he maintained the Philippines would defy the increasing “requirements” set by China in the West Philippine Sea.

Marcos warns of 'new phase of escalation' in West Philippine Sea

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday warned of a “new phase of escalation” in the West Philippine Sea following China’s reported obstruction of the medical evacuation of a sick Filipino sailor at Ayungin Shoal.Marcos said the incident was troubling because the mission involved retrieving a sick sailor for medical treatment.“He was sick. Why would we be prevented from treating one of our own who is ill?” he said. “Even i…

Marcos sees ‘new phase’ of escalation in West Philippine Sea

SINGAPORE — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday said China’s obstruction of a medical evacuation mission at Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal appeared to signal a “new phase” of escalation in the West Philippine Sea, as he questioned Beijing’s insistence that Philippine vessels seek permission to operate in the area. Marcos said the incident, which delayed

Marcos rejects claims of PH 'aggression' in WPS

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has rejected claims that the Philippines has been aggressive in its dealings with China amid continuing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, saying the country has only been defending its territory and sovereign rights.