The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) have issued a caution to the public regarding false claims made by China about an alleged agreement to ease tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement released late Wednesday, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., chief of staff of the AFP, dismissed the claim made by the Chinese Embassy in Manila. The Embassy had stated that Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, commander of the military’s Western Command, had agreed to a “new model” arrangement concerning the Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal.
Brawner emphasized that the alleged audio recording between Carlos and a Chinese diplomat does not hold much weight and could be part of a disinformation campaign by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The DFA also clarified that no deals had been made with China regarding the Ayungin Shoal, emphasizing that only President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has the authority to authorize such agreements.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año supported the denial of Beijing’s claims. Brawner and the DFA urged the public and the media to be cautious in handling such reports to prevent further escalation of tensions.
They also warned against being swayed by deceptive narratives, with the DFA reminding diplomats to adhere strictly to international protocols. Teodoro called for an investigation into the alleged wiretapping and violation of diplomatic relations by individuals from the Chinese Embassy.
The strained relations between Manila and Beijing have been heightened by recent incidents in the West Philippine Sea, including collisions and confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels.
