The National Security Council (NSC) said on Tuesday, Nov. 28, that it allows the planned civil-led Christmas Convoy to pass through the West Philippine Sea, except in Ayungin Shoal where the BRP Sierra Madre is grounded.
“Both parties agreed that a convoy to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal would not be advisable at this time since the safety of the civilian convoy is of paramount consideration,” NSC Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said in a statement.
"Nonetheless, the planned Christmas convoy will pass through the general vicinity of Ayungin Shoal as far as practicable on its way to other selected PH-occupid features to bring Christmas cheer directly to our troops assigned to those areas as well as for fisherfolk," he noted.
JUST IN: Christmas convoy ng Atin Ito coalition sa Ayungin Shoal pinayagan na ng NSC, pero hindi hahayaang makalapit sa BRP Sierra Madre | via RH @ednielparrosa, DZRH News pic.twitter.com/89fgLSK8Nw
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) November 28, 2023
It can be recalled last week when the NSC disapproved the Atin Ito Coalition's proposal to bring goods to BRP Sierra Madre due to several security concerns.
Malaya said the civil-led Christmas Convoy was approved "after a constructive dialogue" with Atin Ito coalition.
According to the NSC Spokesperson, it was agreed that the convoy will only bring the goods to Pagasa Island instead of visiting Ayungin Shoal.
He said the Christmas gifts and donated supplies will be turn over to Philippine military troops and Philippine Coast Guard personnel.
Malaya added that the goods will delivered during the regular rotation and resupply (RORE) missions.
“The agreement ensures the safety and security of the Christmas Convoy, ensures the timely delivery of donated items to our fisherfolk and frontliners, and upholds our sovereign rights to the WPS,” the NSC Spokesperson furthered.
