Manalo: No prior notice, only 'info exchange' on Ayungin deal

Taipei, Taiwan — The Philippines calls it “exchange of information” in contrast to China’s “prior notification” when it comes to resupply missions to a grounded naval vessel in Ayungin Shoal.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo there was no agreement with China to give prior notice on resupply missions to the crew of the BRP Sierra Madre.

"I think the more accurate term is exchange of information, which is exactly what we did with China, and – both of us," said Manalo during the 2+2 PH-US ministerial meeting in Manila on Tuesday. 

Manalo said resupply missions will be relatively successful "provided, China also adheres to the understanding".

In a separate interview with reporters, he said the "exchange of information" should be done before the resupply mission.

"Otherwise what's the sense of exchanging after," said Manalo.

Manalo said the country’s strategy in the West Philippine Sea, or the area that covers the exclusive economic zone, stays even with the new agreement with China.

Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro also rejected claims that the deal gives China the upper hand.

"China winning is the worst scenario, let's put it that way," said Teodoro.

"China winning is an unthinkable scenario," he added.