Enhancing Maritime Security Tolentino Urges Marcos to Create West Philippine Sea Command

Enhancing Maritime Security Tolentino Urges Marcos to Create West Philippine Sea Command

As China's presence in the West Philippine Sea continues to pose a significant challenge to national defense, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino has called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to establish a dedicated West Philippine Sea Command (WPSCOM). In a letter to the president, Tolentino emphasized the importance of enhancing maritime security and national defense in the region.

The Need for a Dedicated Command

Tolentino underscored the critical importance of the West Philippine Sea, both from a security and economic perspective. He noted that the continuous challenges posed by China's vessels necessitate focused leadership resources and operational capabilities to immediately address these security concerns. A dedicated WPSCOM would further strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) capacity to safeguard national interests, enforce sovereignty, and ensure the security of the maritime domain.

Drawing Inspiration from the Past

Tolentino drew inspiration from the Revised Administrative Code of 1987, which grants the Secretary of National Defense the authority to organize major services and other units of the AFP into commands, forces, and organizations as may be prescribed. He emphasized that the WPSCOM would not duplicate existing command structures but rather concentrate on maritime security in the West Philippine Sea.

Gallant Efforts

Tolentino's efforts to enhance national defense and protect the country's territorial integrity are a testament to his commitment to serving the nation. His proposal for the creation of the WPSCOM demonstrates a keen understanding of the complex security challenges facing the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.

Operationalizing the WPSCOM

To operationalize the WPSCOM, Tolentino suggested tapping into the Philippine Fleet Marine Ready Force and enhancing coordination between the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and the Philippine National Police Maritime Command to ensure a comprehensive approach to maritime security.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tolentino's call for the creation of the West Philippine Sea Command is a timely and important step towards strengthening national defense and protecting the country's interests in the region. As the Philippines continues to navigate its relationship with China, a dedicated command focused on maritime security would be a valuable asset in promoting peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea.

Keywords West Philippine Sea, WPSCOM, National Defense, Maritime Security

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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