Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday condemned China’s activities in Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal as a “gross violation of international law,” while Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles underscored the need to stand together in defense of the rules-based order. Marles was in Manila to witness a mock amphibious beach assault by Australian and Filipino naval forces over the weekend in a western Philippine town facing the South China Sea, Philippine military officials said.

Dumalag, G. (2025, August 23). PH, Australia condemn China acts in Ayungin. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A6.