As indicated by recent incidents, the Philippine Armed Forces are bracing for more aggressive tactics from China in the West Philippine Sea. AFP Western Command Chief Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, in a CNN Philippines interview, highlighted the growing severity of China’s actions against Philippine vessels, including the use of lasers and water cannons, and anticipates further escalation, such as ramming or attempts to board Filipino ships.
Carlos asserted the right of the Philippine Navy, Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to board and inspect any ship violating Philippine maritime laws in the region. He also reaffirmed the legitimacy of routine Philippine resupply missions to BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, stating these are part of the government’s administrative duties in the West Philippine Sea.
A recent episode saw a Philippine resupply vessel suffer significant engine damage due to a water cannon attack by the China Coast Guard. Carlos noted that such aggressive, non-lethal tactics by China are likely to avoid triggering the Philippines’ defense treaty with the United States, which could cause serious injuries or deaths of Filipinos.
Despite not specifying countermeasures, Carlos assured readiness for any potential scenarios. In a recent encounter, he also emphasized the numerical disadvantage of Philippine ships compared to Chinese vessels, underlining the necessity for the Philippines to increase its naval presence in the area.
Carlos hinted at imminent changes in the situation, possibly in China’s behavior, following adjustments to Philippine strategy, expressing hope for favorable developments.