The Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) defense of Escoda (Sabina) Shoal from suspected reclamation activities by China will ensure the continuity of resupply mission to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), according to a coast guard official. Commodore Jay Tarriela, PCG spokesperson for WPS, said Ayungin Shoal lies between Escoda Shoal and Panganiban (Mischief) Reef, where China has already established an artificial island that has been fully militarized since reclamation works started in the mid-2010s.

Sadongdong, M. (2024, May 14). Defense of Escoda Shoal vital to Ayungin Shoal - PCG. Manila Bulletin, p. 8.