The National Security Council (NSC) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have firmly supported President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s stance on China respecting Philippine sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This comes amid rising tensions over maritime disputes.
NSC and AFP Fully Support President Marcos
In a statement on January 31, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. echoed the President’s call for China to behave peacefully. They committed to upholding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We have consistently pursued peaceful and diplomatic measures in line with our goal of de-escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea,” Año stated. “Our actions comply with international law and established norms of cooperation and diplomacy, contributing to regional peace and stability.”
President Marcos’ Plea to China
Last Thursday, during an event in Cebu City, Marcos addressed China’s aggressive actions directly. He proposed a deal: China would cease its territorial claims, stop harassing Filipino fishermen, and refrain from aggressive behavior in return for the Philippines returning the Typhon missile system to the United States.
“Let’s make a deal with China: Stop claiming our territory, stop harassing our fishermen and letting them have a living, stop ramming our boats, stop water cannoning our people, stop firing lasers at us, and stop your aggressive and coercive behavior, and we’ll return the Typhon missiles,” Marcos said.
The Typhon Missile System
The Philippine Army earlier confirmed the Typhon mid-range capability (MRC) was relocated from Northern Luzon to an undisclosed location for an upcoming military exercise in February. The Typhon is meant for defense purposes and was initially deployed during the 2024 Balikatan exercises to enhance interoperability with U.S. forces.
China has repeatedly pressured the Philippines to withdraw the missile launcher, citing concerns about increased tensions in the region. However, Año clarified that the Typhon was solely for defensive reasons and essential for improving defense capabilities.
AFP Chairman’s Commitment to Sovereignty
AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. reminded that President Marcos had pledged during his first State of the Nation Address in 2022 that the government would not cede Philippine territory to any foreign power.
“The AFP fully embraces this commitment and remains resolute in defending our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea,” Brawner vowed.
AFP’s Call to Action
Brawner criticized China Coast Guard (CCG) and People’s Liberation Army-Navy (PLA-N) actions, labeling them illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive. These actions violate international law and domestic laws, posing threats to regional stability.
“We must stop these reckless actions that threaten both the sovereignty of the Philippines and the principles of a rules-based international order,” Brawner echoed.
The AFP will continue to strengthen its defense posture, enhance self-reliant capabilities, and deepen security partnerships with like-minded nations, including through modernization efforts. Brawner emphasized the need for close coordination with the PCG and other maritime agencies to assert the country’s maritime rights.
“We call on every Filipino to stand united in defending our seas—know our seas, fight for our rights, and support what is ours for the future and for the generations to come,” Brawner concluded.
Conclusion
The Philippines remains steadfast in its defense of sovereignty and territorial integrity in the West Philippine Sea. With the support of the NSC and AFP, President Marcos continues to advocate for peaceful resolution of maritime disputes through diplomacy and assertive defense measures.
As tensions with China persist, the Philippines is committed to maintaining regional stability and upholding international law.
If you would like to stay informed on the latest developments, subscribe to Archynetys for more news on this story and other important updates. Share this article on social media to spread awareness and join the conversation.
