The recent incident involving China Coast Guard (CCG) officers raising the Chinese flag on Sandy Cay marks a serious threat to Philippine sovereignty and national security. China’s claim that Sandy Cay is part of its Nansha Islands, coupled with accusations of illegal Philippine encroachment, attempts to legitimize its presence in Philippine waters and undermine international law.
In response, the Philippine Navy, Coast Guard, and PNP-Maritime Group launched a coordinated operation to reassert control and raise the Philippine flag on Sandy Cay. The National Security Council confirmed the illegal presence of Chinese vessels near Cay-2 and Cay-3, reaffirming the urgency of defending the country’s maritime territory.
This standoff is part of a broader campaign that includes disinformation tactics. Reports revealed that China hired local firms to spread online propaganda aimed at weakening public trust in the Philippine government.
In contrast, the Philippines is strengthening its external defense through regional and international partnerships. The ongoing 40th Balikatan Exercises, involving over 17,000 personnel from 20 countries, reflect a united commitment to a rules-based regional order. Defense ties with Japan and the recent Visiting Forces Agreement with New Zealand further reinforce this strategy.
The Sandy Cay episode underscores the need for a whole-of-nation approach to protect Philippine sovereignty, from territorial defense to countering cyber and psychological operations. As President Marcos affirms, not an inch of Philippine territory will be surrendered.
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