Manila: No untoward incidents were reported in the Philippines’ latest rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) mission to Ayungin Shoal on January 24, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced Friday. This marks the fifth successful resupply mission to the troops stationed at the marooned BRP Sierra Madre, under the framework of the Philippine-China understanding on RORE in the Ayungin Shoal.

According to Philippines News Agency, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza emphasized that effective diplomacy plays a crucial role in addressing issues in the West Philippine Sea. She stated that this successful mission demonstrates the potential for innovative approaches to manage the situation without compromising the Philippine national interest.

“The Philippines today completed another rotation and reprovisioning (RORE) mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal and again no untoward incidents were reported,” Daza said. The DFA expressed gratitude for the professionalism demonstrated by the Phi
lippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard during the mission.

Earlier this month, Manila and Beijing agreed to continue implementing the provisional arrangement on the rotation and delivery of supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre at the 10th Philippines-China Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) held in Xiamen. The understanding, reached in July 2024, outlines the principles and approaches for conducting these missions to avoid misunderstandings and miscalculations.

Daza highlighted that the successful RORE mission and adherence to the mutual understanding are substantial demonstrations of diplomatic and pragmatic cooperation in addressing issues in the South China Sea. She further noted that the mission underscores the Philippines’ commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s guidance.