The Young Guns commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for their unwavering resolve in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity. In response to the recent incident at the BRP Sierra Madre in the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese forces attempted to board the grounded vessel, the coalition praised the AFP’s steadfast commitment to national defense.

The BRP Sierra Madre, deliberately grounded at Ayungin Shoal since 1999, stands as a critical symbol of the Philippines’ sovereignty and a vital outpost in asserting the nation’s rights in the West Philippine Sea.

The statement follows remarks by Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who directed troops to prevent Chinese personnel from boarding the BRP Sierra Madre at all costs. This directive underscores the AFP’s dedication to upholding the Philippines’ sovereign rights amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea.

Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega, representing La Union’s 1st District, emphasized the bravery and professionalism of Filipino troops. “The Armed Forces of the Philippines have once again demonstrated their unyielding spirit in protecting our maritime domain. Under the leadership of Gen. Brawner, our soldiers are the frontline guardians of our sovereignty, and we stand firmly behind them in this critical mission,” said Ortega.

Deputy Speaker Jay Khonghun highlighted the strategic importance of the West Philippine Sea. “This incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats to our nation’s interests. The AFP’s firm stance sends a powerful message to aggressors that the Philippines will not yield an inch of our territory. We applaud their vigilance and readiness to defend our rights under international law,” Khonghun stated.

Congressman Ernix Dionisio, known for his advocacy on national security matters, added in Filipino, “Ang kabayanihan na ipinakita ng ating mga tropa sa BRP Sierra Madre ay patunay ng kahusayan at patriotismo ng AFP. Sa mga mapanghamong panahong ito, ang kanilang mga aksyon ay hindi lamang nagpoprotekta sa ating karagatan kundi nagbibigay-inspirasyon sa buong bansa. Buong suporta ang Young Guns sa AFP at nananawagan kami ng patuloy na pagkakaisa para palakasin ang ating kakayahan sa depensa.”

Congressman Dionisio salutes the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. for their exemplary leadership in ordering troops to prevent Chinese personnel from boarding the BRP Sierra Madre at all costs, reinforcing the nation’s unwavering stand against external aggression.

Congressman Zia Alonto Adiong, representing the diverse voices within the coalition, stressed the broader implications for regional peace. “We praise the AFP for their disciplined response and for upholding the rule of law in the face of provocation. This is not just about one vessel; it’s about preserving peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The BRP Sierra Madre embodies our nation’s resolve, and our armed forces deserve the gratitude and full backing of every Filipino,” Adiong remarked.

The Young Guns stand firmly behind President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s resolute commitment to ensuring that not a square inch of Philippine territory will be surrendered.