The Philippines is taking steps to strengthen its position in the disputed South China Sea by upgrading outposts and increasing its naval capabilities, according to the country’s military chief, General Romeo Brawner. The move comes as China continues to assert its dominance in the region, causing tensions to rise.
The Philippines currently has outposts on nine reefs and islands in the Spratly Islands, located in the South China Sea. General Brawner announced that facilities on Thitu and Nanshan islands will be improved, with the installation of desalination machines and communications equipment. The aim is to make these outposts more livable and habitable for the soldiers stationed there, as they currently face poor living conditions.
It is important to note that the upgrade plan does not include fortifying the Sierra Madre, a World War II-vintage ship that was grounded on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 by the Philippine Navy to assert the country’s territorial claims. Instead, the focus is on enhancing the existing outposts and acquiring additional ships, aircraft, and radars as part of a modest modernization program that began over a decade ago.
China’s claim over almost the entire South China Sea has been a source of contention, with the country disregarding an international tribunal ruling that deemed its assertions to have no legal basis. In recent months, tensions have escalated further, with China conducting military drills in the South China Sea while the United States and the Philippines conducted their own joint exercises in the same waters.
The disputed reefs in the area have been a flashpoint for conflicts between China and the Philippines. Standoffs between vessels from both countries have resulted in collisions and Chinese ships using water cannons against Philippine boats. In response to these incidents, the Philippine Congress has allocated funds for the construction of a port facility on Nanshan, where boats, including fishing vessels, can seek shelter. Additionally, an expansion of the airstrip on Thitu has been planned to enhance the island’s capabilities.
During a recent command conference, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to reconfigure its tactics in dealing with internal and external threats. General Brawner, along with other military officials, briefed Marcos on the military’s accomplishments in 2023 and the strategy formulated for 2024. The President emphasized the need for a whole-of-nation approach and the participation of the citizenry in coping with various threats, including those in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and natural disasters.
General Brawner welcomed the President’s guidance and assured that the AFP’s plans and programs would align with the directives of the commander in chief. This commitment reflects the Philippines’ determination to protect its interests and maintain stability in the region.
In conclusion, the Philippines is taking proactive measures to strengthen its presence in the South China Sea amidst China’s growing assertiveness. Upgrading outposts, acquiring more ships, and enhancing military capabilities are part of the country’s efforts to push back against China’s claims. The Philippines remains committed to protecting its territorial integrity and ensuring stability in the region, while also seeking diplomatic solutions to resolve the ongoing disputes.
Source: The Manila Times
