China has for years spent billions of dollars to build a “bluewater navy” capable of projecting power far beyond its own shores, a strategic direction that dates to President Xi Jinping’s assumption of leadership in 2012.

The defense chief also highlighted that it is China, not the Philippines, that continues to occupy disputed features such as Panganiban Reef (Mischief), which has been transformed into a Chinese‑controlled military‑civil installation in the Kalayaan Island Group (Spratly Islands). Manila’s position is that these features and the surrounding waters fall within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, as affirmed by the 2016 tribunal.

Article by F. Palafox Published on April 21, 2026 8:20AM MANILA, Philippines — The Stratbase Institute on Sunday voiced strong backing for the Philippines' largest-ever Balikatan exercises, urging deeper military ties with allies and a robust defense stance in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as tensions with China escalate. ¹ Stratbase president and CEO Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit hailed the April 20 to May 8 drills, involving over 17,000 troops from the Philippines, the US,

MANILA, Philippines — The 1Sambayan coalition insists that any joint energy exploration with foreign states in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) must explicitly affirm Philippine ownership of the oil and gas resources there.

MANILA, Philippines — The troop numbers hover around 17,500 from seven (7) nations including the US, Australia, and Japan. US 2026 Balikatan spokesperson Colonel Robert Bunn acknowledged routine "tweaks" for asset availability, standard regardless of Middle East operations. This reinforces interoperability and deterrence in the West Philippine Sea context.

Article by F. Palafox Published on April 17, 2026 6:20AM MANILA, Philippines — Executive Secretary Ralph Recto met with Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan on April 14 at Malacañang Palace to discuss China-Philippines relations, covering the West Philippine Sea, South China Sea, law enforcement, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.¹ ² ⁴ ⁵ The Chinese Embassy stated the two (2) sides exchanged views on stabilizing bilateral ties amid ongoing maritime tensions. ⁵ ⁷ Topics included

NSC warned that reef destruction might enable China to stage an "environmental crisis" and blame the Philippines, mirroring past accusations against BRP Sierra Madre to deflect from its activities.

The AFP’s involvement in the mural festival reflects its broader efforts to enhance national awareness, strengthen community relationships, and cultivate a shared understanding of the WPS as a vital component of identity.