The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) has confirmed information released by Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. regarding the presence of a floating structure in the waters of Bajo de Masinloc.
In a statement, the NTF-WPS said aerial monitoring confirmed the presence of a 6-by-6-meter floating structure that appears to be equipped with an antenna.
Images obtained by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also reportedly show personnel on the platform.
The task force added that the structure is located within the shoal area.
As a result, the NTF-WPS is coordinating with various government agencies to monitor and assess the nature, purpose, and implications of the installation, as well as activities taking place in the area.
Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has already undertaken diplomatic action with the government of China regarding the alleged illegal presence of the floating structure.
The NTF-WPS stressed its continued commitment to upholding the rules-based international order, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.
According to the task force, Bajo de Masinloc remains an integral part of the Philippines and falls within the country’s maritime zones.
(PHOTO COURTESY: PCG | FILE)
