DFA challenges former SC justice to offer alternatives to help military deliver supplies to Ayungin Shoal
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) challenged a retired Supreme Court senior associate justice to offer viable alternatives for a conflict-free co-existence with China in the South China Sea.
Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson for maritime affairs, Rogelio Villanueva Jr., speaking to the media on Tuesday, July 4. Photo by Anna Mogato.
Anna Mogato | August 8, 2026
MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) challenged a retired Supreme Court senior associate justice to offer viable alternatives for a conflict-free co-existence with China in the South China Sea.
In a statement, Rogelio Villanueva Jr., a spokesman for maritime affairs, said the foreign ministry had an agreement with China in July 2024 to avoid any conflict over Ayungin Shoal following a violent confrontation near BRP Sierra Madre in June.
“The Provisional Understanding is intended to avoid misunderstanding and miscalculation at sea, does not require the [Armed Forces of the Philippines] to seek permission nor involve boarding and inspection of its vessels during RORE (Rotation and Resupply) missions,” Villanueva said.
A staunch West Philippine Sea advocate, former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio criticized the provisional understanding, saying it weakens the Philippines’ sovereignty on some parts of the South China Sea.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., meanwhile, denied knowledge of the Provisional Understanding.
Villanueva, however, said that the DFA will always uphold the country’s sovereign rights as affirmed by the 2016 Arbitral Award.
Instead, Villanueva invited Carpio to “offer to the AFP any viable alternative that can ensure the continued efficient, timely, and safe conduct of resupply missions that provide essential supplies and facilitate the regular rotation of our troops in BRP Sierra Madre.”
The issue of the Provisional Understanding was revived following an incident between China Coast Guard (CCG) and Philippine Navy personnel stationed on the rusting vessel, BRP Sierra Madre, at Ayungin Shoal.
The agreement stipulates that the Philippines conduct RORE missions without seeking permission from China, and that China is not allowed to board and inspect Philippine ships. Other details of the Provisional Understanding are kept confidential.
Beijing’s envoy to Manila, Jing Quan, hinted at revisiting the Provisional Understanding after he was summoned to Malacañang by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Villanueva said at least 15 RORE missions have been conducted since the agreement in July 2024.