MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Navy sailor who lost his right thumb during a violent confrontation in June with members of the China Coast Guard (CCG) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) has had his severed finger reconstructed.

Following a June 17 confrontation with the China Coast Guard in Ayungin Shoal, a Philippine Navy service member’s thumb has been reattached, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said yesterday.