AFP supports Teodoro amid China tiff

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday backed Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. over the suspension of military-to-military communication channels with China, saying Beijing’s actions had failed to justify continued reliance on the mechanisms.

In a statement sent to the DAILY TRIBUNE, the AFP said the decision to suspend the channels nearly three years ago was based on experience and the failure of such mechanisms to produce meaningful results amid what it described as provocative and irresponsible actions by the People’s Liberation Army and China Coast Guard.

“Upholding the Constitution and safeguarding our sovereign rights is a duty incumbent upon every Filipino. United as one nation, the Filipino people and the AFP will continue to defend our territorial integrity,” the military said.

Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said communication must be matched by actions on the ground, at sea and in the air. He said dialogue could work only if it was anchored in mutual trust, sincerity and respect for international law.

“Bilateral dialogue will be effective if the messages match the actions on sea, air, and ground,” Trinidad said during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo.

Trinidad accused the Communist Party of China of using direct communication channels as a “smokescreen” for what he described as China’s illegal presence, aggressive actions and deceptive messaging in Philippine maritime areas and on land.

‘Self-interests’

He said the AFP would continue maritime patrols, aerial operations, maritime domain awareness activities, and rotation and resupply missions.

Trinidad also reaffirmed that the BRP Sierra Madre would remain a commissioned Philippine Navy vessel at Ayungin Shoal.

“Your AFP will ensure that our flag remains flying high and proud over our maritime domain,” he said.

The Chinese Embassy in Manila criticized Teodoro in a statement dated 12 October, accusing him of suspending military communication channels for “political self-interest.”