In a recent statement, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. of the Philippines emphasized the need to increase collaboration with allied countries and major partners not only in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) but also in other areas of the country. This comes as China continues to assert its presence and influence in the South China Sea. Teodoro expressed his commitment to exercise the country’s partnership to the fullest extent, asserting that it is well within the Philippines’ rights as a sovereign nation.
Teodoro highlighted the armed forces’ pursuit of a comprehensive archipelagic defense strategy. This strategy aims to ensure unimpeded and peaceful exploration and exploitation of natural resources within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and other areas under Philippine jurisdiction. The Defense Secretary emphasized the importance of protecting Philippine interests and nationals in an increasingly volatile and unpredictable world, even if the full realization of these efforts may extend beyond his lifetime.
To achieve these goals, the defense and military establishments are seriously considering prioritizing the capability enhancement program horizon-3 under the modernization program. This program focuses on acquiring more sophisticated naval ships, radar systems, and other armaments designed specifically for archipelagic defense capabilities. These enhancements are crucial in safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity in light of China’s continued incursion and creeping invasion of various features in the South China Sea (SCS).
The Philippines faces a complex and evolving situation in the South China Sea, with China’s assertive actions causing concerns not only for the Philippines but also for neighboring countries and the international community at large. The South China Sea is a highly contested area, with multiple countries claiming sovereignty over different parts of it. This has led to tensions and disputes over maritime boundaries, fishing rights, and access to natural resources.
China’s activities in the South China Sea, including the construction of artificial islands and militarization of certain features, have raised alarm bells among countries in the region. These actions have been seen as a challenge to the existing international order and a potential threat to the freedom of navigation and overflight in the area.
The Philippines, as one of the claimant countries in the South China Sea, has been actively seeking diplomatic and legal avenues to address the issue. The country has filed a case against China in the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, challenging the legality of China’s claims and actions in the South China Sea. The court ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016, stating that China’s claims had no legal basis. However, China has refused to recognize the ruling and continues its assertive actions in the region.
In response to China’s activities, the Philippines has sought to strengthen its partnerships with other countries, particularly those with shared interests in maintaining peace, stability, and the rule of law in the South China Sea. The Philippines has conducted joint military exercises with the United States, Japan, and Australia, among others, to enhance its defense capabilities and demonstrate its commitment to regional security.
The Philippines’ pursuit of a comprehensive archipelagic defense strategy and the prioritization of capability enhancement programs reflect its determination to protect its national interests and ensure the security of its maritime domain. These efforts are essential in maintaining stability in the South China Sea and upholding the principles of international law.
As the Philippines continues to navigate the complexities of the South China Sea issue, it remains committed to pursuing peaceful and diplomatic solutions. The country recognizes the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by China’s activities. By strengthening partnerships and enhancing its defense capabilities, the Philippines aims to assert its rights as a sovereign nation and protect its interests in the face of an increasingly uncertain and unpredictable world.
Source: The Manila Times
