MANILA, Philippines: The civilian-led Christmas convoy to the West Philippine Sea faced obstacles as Chinese ships gathered in the contested area just days before the convoy set sail. The National Security Council (NCS) requested that the convoy avoid the Philippine outpost aboard the BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal. Additionally, Chinese vessels were spotted near Mischief (Panganiban Reef), even though it was not part of the convoy’s intended itinerary.
The NSC explained that it did not grant permission for the convoy, known as “Atin Ito” (This is Ours), to deliver gifts and donations to the Filipino troops stationed at Sierra Madre due to security concerns. However, the convoy was allowed to visit Pag-asa Island to hand over the goods, which would later be transported to the troops in Sierra Madre during the next rotation and resupply mission.
The supplies included noche buena packs, solar lamps, rice, canned goods, hygiene kits, gadgets, and toys. These items were intended to bring holiday cheer to the military troops stationed in the West Philippine Sea.
According to security expert Ray Powell, there was evidence that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese maritime militia were aware of the Philippine resupply mission. Powell, who also leads Project Myoushu at Stanford University’s Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation and SeaLight, reported that within the past 24 hours, eight of China’s Qiong Sansha Yu militia ships sailed from stations 130-300 kilometers away to the Chinese Panganiban Reef military base. This gathering of ships, located 40 kilometers away from Ayungin, was described as “one of the largest concentrations of force ever observed.”
In addition to the militia ships, at least two large CCG vessels, namely 5305 and 5402, were present in the area. These ships were frequently observed participating in blockade activities. The Panganiban Reef also hosted four large People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessels, including Type 52C and 52D Destroyers, and three smaller CCG ships, such as a Type 72 II Landing Ship, a Type 53H3 Light Frigate, and a CCG Hulai II Class.
The civilian-led Christmas convoy embarked on its first leg from Manila to El Nido in Palawan aboard the MV Kapitan Oca, serving as the convoy’s mothership. The convoy consisted of 40 volunteers, including youth and student leaders, as well as fisherfolk representatives. More volunteers were expected to join once the convoy reached Palawan.
During their journey, the convoy would pass through the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal, while en route to other selected Philippine-occupied features.
Despite the challenges and the presence of Chinese ships in the area, the civilian-led Christmas convoy remained committed to bringing holiday cheer to the Filipino troops stationed in the West Philippine Sea. The convoy’s determination to deliver supplies and support serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Filipino people.
Source: The Manila Times
