Manila, Oct. 23 -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday said all threats against the BRP Sierra Madre (LS-57), which is standing watch over Ayungin Shoal, West Philippine Sea, are taken very seriously.

"Any threat against BRP Sierra Madre will be taken very seriously because it will be an act against a military vessel of the Republic of the Philippines," he said in an online briefing.

This, after a report from a Manila-based Chinese media outlet claims that China is reportedly considering sanctions against the Philippines that include towing of the Filipino naval vessel, blocking of resupply missions and imposition of trade sanctions against the Philippines.

BRP Sierra Madre was grounded in 1999...