AFP evacuates soldier from Ayungin over medical issues

The soldier had a 'prior medical condition,' the Armed Forces says

MANILA, Philippines — A Filipino soldier deployed to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal had to be evacuated Thursday, October 8, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said in a statement.

The soldier, whose identity was not disclosed, “requires immediate medical attention due to a prior medical condition,” according to the military. His medical evacuation — via a rubber boat from the BRP Sierra Madre to a Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel — was ongoing as of Thursday evening.

“The personnel has received initial medical management and remains under observation while arrangements for his emergency evacuation are being facilitated,” said the AFP. The soldier is expected to be on land, at the Western Command (Wescom)’s headquarters in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, before the day’s end.

“The AFP remains focused on the health, safety, and welfare of its personnel. Every necessary measure is being taken to ensure that the patient receives the medical attention and care he needs at the soonest possible time,” the military added.

Ayungin is where the BRP Sierra Madre serves as an outpost for the military in that part of the West Philippine Sea. The Sierra Madre, a World War II vessel, was run aground on purpose in 1999 in reaction to China’s apparent militarization of nearby Panganiban (Mischief) Reef. These days, Panganiban is an artificial militarized island for China.

The AFP has no information on whether the medical evacuation was harassed by Chinese forces, which they often do in flashpoints like Ayungin Shoal. Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea as its territory, including parts that are within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, which is part of what Manila calls the West Philippine Sea. – Rappler.com