Manila, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated its commitment to protect Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea against any plans of occupation by a foreign nation.
According to AFP spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the military is prepared to protect and defend the Philippines’ sovereignty.
Trinidad further emphasized that the military is not alarmed by China’s presence near Pag-asa Island.
Among the preparations being undertaken by the military stationed on Pag-asa Island is the development of the 1.3-kilometer Rancudo Airfield, which has the capacity to handle medium-sized transport aircraft.
This is part of the administration’s pledge to develop the island, an area where the presence of Chinese ships is frequently observed.
Meanwhile, Trinidad reported that they monitored the presence of over twenty Chinese ships across four areas of the West Philippine Sea.
According to the military, four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels were spotted at Ayungin Shoal, thirteen CCG vessels at Bajo de Masinloc, two People’s Liberation Army Navy ships and one CCG vessel at Escoda, and two navy warships along with two CCG vessels near Pag-asa Island.
The military monitored these Chinese ships between July 7 and July 13.—Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News