The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) firmly rejected China's assertion that the China Coast Guard (CCG) 'permitted' the medical evacuation of an injured Filipino serviceman from Ayungin Shoal, emphasizing that the operation was conducted under Philippine authority within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

The AFP stated that the July 21 evacuation, carried out with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), was part of the Philippines' sovereign rights and that no foreign permission was required.This follows a confrontation near the BRP Sierra Madre, where a Philippine Navy sailor was injured during an encounter with Chinese personnel.President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.summoned Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan to discuss the incident and other security concerns.

The AFP reiterated Ayungin Shoal's location within the Philippines' 200-nautical-mile EEZ, citing the 2016 UNCLOS Arbitral Award, and condemned the CCG's claim as a 'false narrative' to assert illegitimate authority.

The military emphasized that the BRP Sierra Madre is a commissioned Philippine Navy vessel, making its personnel's care a Philippine responsibility.The AFP also criticized China's 'unlawful' interference in the West Philippine Sea and urged compliance with international law.Both nations exchanged diplomatic protests after the incident, with China summoning the Philippine ambassador in Beijing.The AFP remains committed to protecting Philippine sovereignty and conducting lawful operations in the region without foreign approval.