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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Zubiri stresses need to modernize AFP, PCG amid West Philippine Sea row

Zubiri stresses need to modernize AFP, PCG amid West Philippine Sea row

Published Jun 22, 2024 07:46 am

At A Glance

  • Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri underscored the need to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), especially the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), following recent and brazen acts of aggression and violence coming from the Chinese maritime authorities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Senator Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri underscored the need to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), especially the Philippine Navy and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), following recent and brazen acts of aggression and violence coming from the Chinese maritime authorities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

Zubiri said that China continues to violate Philippine territory and its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the WPS.

"Condemning China is no longer enough. Nakita naman po natin sa mga nirelease na video kung paanong kinawawa, pinagtulungan at parang kinuyog ang ating mga magigiting na sundalo, isa po ay nagtamo pa ng seryosong pinsala sa katawan (We saw in the video released what they did to our soldiers, how they mobbed and ganged up on them, one even suffered serious injury)," he said.

"Even with a large sector of the international community standing firmly behind us, China remains unfazed. They clearly intend to continue strong-arming their way into our territory and EEZ," he added.

Zubiri says that moving forward with the local forces’ modernization program is the only way to go. He mentioned that while the Philippines cannot match China's military might, it can still boost the number of those patrolling with the WPS.

He added that the Senate already allocated over P6 billion for the AFP and P2.8 billion for the PCG for 2024. He stressed the need to release these funds immediately to help local forces procure the vessels and defense materiel that they need to credibly protect themselves and defend our waters.

"We have also already approved the New Government Procurement Act, and we expect that its looming passage will help us fast-track the purchase of much-needed equipment for our brave soldiers, who are risking their lives for the sovereignty of our beloved nation," he said.

"The budget is ready, and the law is coming. I call on all government stakeholders to act with utmost urgency in setting our modernization plans into motion, so we can set up a stronger defense of the West Philippine Sea," he added.

Related Tags

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri West Philippine Sea (WPS)
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