Standing Firm: The Philippines’ Resolve in the West Philippine Sea
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. delivered a powerful message at the 2024 IISS Shangri-La Dialog in Singapore,reaffirming the Philippines’ unwavering stance on the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Amidst continued provocations from the China Coast Guard (CCG) and persistent diplomatic tensions, the president declared, “I do not intend to yield. Filipinos do not yield.”
He further emphasized, “I will not preside over any process that will abandon even a square inch of territory of the Republic of the philippines.” These statements underscored the nation’s commitment to protecting its sovereign rights in the disputed waters.
Unlawful Actions in the WPS
despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) that invalidated China’s sweeping maritime claims, the CCG continues to harass Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel, Navy sailors, and Filipino fishermen.China’s presence in the WPS remains unlawful under international law.
‘Our Seas, our Rights, Our future’: A Campaign for Transparency
In response to these challenges, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) launched Dialogue Plan (COMPLAN) Mulat in July 2024. This initiative aims to enhance public awareness of the Philippines’ maritime rights and combat misinformation surrounding the WPS. AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo brawner Jr. explained, “mulat” means “aware,” highlighting the campaign’s focus on dispelling false narratives and strengthening national unity.
“There are malicious narratives that twist the truth. Fake news peddlers are adept at malign influence, and their goal is to weaken national unity, disrupt our quality of life, and erode our political and economic stability,” emphasized DND Assistant Secretary for defence Communications and Spokesperson Arsenio Andolong. The AFP is actively working to expose these attempts at division and manipulation.
‘Tatag Kapuluan’: A Multifaceted Approach to Defense
The ‘Tatag Kapuluan’ initiative, introduced on December 20, 2024, represents a comprehensive national defense strategy aimed at securing Philippine sovereignty, especially in the WPS.General Brawner stated, ”Protecting our maritime territory means ensuring that our fishermen can fish freely and that our trade routes remain secure.”
‘Tatag Kapuluan’ emphasizes a synchronized and holistic effort involving various stakeholders, aiming to strengthen the country’s capacity to defend its waters and coastlines.This multifaceted approach reflects the Philippines’ commitment to safeguarding its national interests and upholding its rights in the Indo-Pacific region.
President Marcos Jr.’s resolute stance, accompanied by initiatives like COMPLAN Mulat and ‘Tatag Kapuluan,’ demonstrates the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to defending its territorial integrity and its resolve to protect the WPS. As the Philippines navigates these complex geopolitical challenges, its commitment to peace, diplomacy, and the rule of law remains steadfast.
Strengthening Philippine Defenses in the West Philippine Sea
The Philippines is taking a resolute stance to protect its maritime territory in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), implementing a multi-faceted approach that encompasses strengthening its military capabilities, asserting its sovereignty, and promoting transparency.
Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC)
A cornerstone of this strategy is the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC). This flagship program of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration aims to enhance the Philippines’ ability to safeguard its entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). “Wiht CADC, we are strengthening our ability to defend our territory, reaching even the outermost edges of our EEZ and extended continental shelves,” explained Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Brigadier General Patricio andolong, in an exclusive interview.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro underscored the concept’s expansive scope, stating, “We are investing in deterrence to guarantee our security. We are also expanding our reach.” CADC broadens the scope of defense operations to encompass the entire 360-degree maritime expanse surrounding the Philippines’ archipelagic baselines.
Upholding Sovereignty Through Resupply Missions
The philippine military is consistently conducting resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre, a Philippine naval ship stationed in ayungin Shoal, a disputed area in the WPS. These missions are a powerful demonstration of the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to its sovereign rights.
“We will exhaust all means possible, and we will do it on our own first. Kaya natin ito (We can do this),” declared AFP Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Bartolome vicente Pain. He highlighted the military’s adaptability, noting past instances where troops successfully delivered supplies via aircraft when maritime routes were blocked by Chinese interference.
President Marcos has explicitly stated the Philippines’ intention to maintain the BRP Sierra madre’s presence in the area.In August 2023, he firmly asserted, “I know of no agreement to move our ship from our own territory.”
Combating Chinese Aggression
China’s continued assertiveness in the WPS remains a source of concern. Despite diplomatic protests and international condemnation, Chinese vessels have engaged in harassing activities, including blocking philippine ships and interfering with Philippine fishing operations.
However, President Marcos has declared, “Filipinos shall not yield.” The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Navy, AFP, and Filipino fishermen are on the front lines of defending Philippine waters and its maritime interests.
Boosting Morale Through Transparency
The PCG’s National Task Force – west Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) has been instrumental in exposing Chinese harassment through its transparency initiative. This proactive approach has significantly boosted the morale of PCG personnel, who previously felt demoralized and unsupported.
“Their efforts were not even recognized by the government. People were made to believe that everything was going smoothly in the WPS,” said Commodore Jay Tarriela,West Philippine Sea Spokesperson,prior to President Marcos’ administration.He noted a significant shift in public perception as President Marcos began actively supporting transparency efforts.
“When President Marcos first addressed this issue in his State of the Nation Address, the challenge was to convince the Filipino people to support this cause. now, nearly two years later, we are seeing a positive impact,” tarriela stated.
Moving Forward: A Call to action
The Philippines’ commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity in the WPS is resolute. Through strengthened defense initiatives, transparency efforts, and public support, the Philippines is determined to protect its sovereign waters. Citizens can contribute by staying informed, supporting policies that uphold national sovereignty, and advocating for peaceful resolutions to disputes.
