National Security Adviser and National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea (NTF WPS) Chairman Eduardo Año has directed the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to carry out a maritime patrol in response to the illegal presence of more than a hundred Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM) vessels in Julian Felipe (Whitson) Reef in the West Philippine Sea.
The PCG reported on Sunday that Año issued the directive after monitoring 111 CMMs swarming the area of Julian Felipe Reef on November 13. The Armed Forces of the Philippines later confirmed that this number had increased to 125.
In response, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan deployed the RP Sindangan and BRP Cabra to patrol near Julian Felipe Reef. However, the CMM vessels did not respond to the radio challenges issued by the PCG.
Julian Felipe Reef, located 175 nautical miles west of Bataraza, Palawan, is considered a low tide elevation within the territorial sea of relevant high tide features in the Kalayaan Island Group. The Philippines asserts sovereignty over this area, including Chigua Reef, based on international laws.
The PCG remains committed to safeguarding maritime security, safety, and the marine environment while protecting the territorial integrity, sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction of the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea. This commitment is grounded in international laws such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos), the 2016 Arbitral Award, and Philippine domestic laws.
Admiral Gavan emphasizes that Coast Guard vessels will consistently patrol the West Philippine Sea in collaboration with relevant components of the NTF WPS. The PCG is resolute in fulfilling its fundamental patriotic duty as the protector of laws and rules, ensuring that all Filipinos enjoy peace and prosperity in all maritime territories and jurisdictions of the country, in line with the policy direction of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
This recent development highlights the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where China’s expansive territorial claims continue to clash with the Philippines’ sovereign rights. The presence of Chinese Maritime Militia vessels in the area further exacerbates the situation, as their activities are seen as a threat to Philippine national security and the stability of the region.
The deployment of the Philippine Coast Guard to challenge and document the illegal presence of these vessels is a proactive step towards asserting the country’s rights and protecting its interests. By conducting maritime patrols, the PCG aims to gather evidence of the Chinese Maritime Militia’s activities and provide a clear record of their incursions.
International laws, such as Unclos, play a crucial role in resolving disputes in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines’ adherence to these laws strengthens its legal position and underscores its commitment to a rules-based international order. The 2016 Arbitral Award, which invalidated China’s nine-dash line claim, further reinforces the Philippines’ rights and entitlements in the area.
It is important to note that the PCG’s actions are not meant to escalate tensions but rather to uphold the rule of law and protect Philippine sovereignty. The maritime patrols serve as a deterrent to illegal activities and send a clear message that the Philippines will not tolerate any infringements on its rights.
As the situation in the West Philippine Sea continues to evolve, it is crucial for the international community to support the Philippines in its efforts to peacefully resolve disputes and maintain stability in the region. By upholding international laws and working together, nations can ensure the peaceful and lawful use of the seas and promote a secure and prosperous future for all.
Source: The Manila Times
