The Stealth Runner Needs Backup: WPS Needs More Than Six to Secure Our Waters

The West Philippine Sea (WPS) remains a contested area, with a significant and growing presence of Chinese vessels within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Recent reports indicate a concerning number of Chinese fishing vessels, coast guard ships, and even militia boats operating in the region, particularly near the Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Shoal.

While the Stealth Runner Project offers a promising solution for safeguarding Filipino fisherfolk, the sheer volume of Chinese vessels necessitates a more comprehensive approach. A fleet of just six Stealth Runners, as initially envisioned, is simply not enough to effectively patrol the vast expanse of the WPS, including the crucial areas of Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Shoal, let alone the wide-open waters within our EEZ.

Deterrence through a visible presence remains critical. However, with the current imbalance in vessel numbers, relying solely on the Stealth Runner Project presents a significant limitation. This is where the Philippine Navy plays a vital role.

The Philippine Navy needs to actively and aggressively assert its presence in the WPS. Increased patrols by our larger warships and patrol vessels are crucial to deter further encroachment and protect our sovereign rights.

The Stealth Runner Project, with its focus on crew safety and non-violent intervention, can be a valuable asset in this strategy. These patrol boats can operate alongside the Philippine Navy, providing valuable support for our fisherfolk and gathering crucial data on illegal activities.

However, the success of any strategy rests on a strong and active naval presence. The Philippine government must prioritize allocating resources and strengthening the Philippine Navy’s capabilities to effectively patrol the WPS.

WPS.News calls for a multi-pronged approach:

• Increased Philippine Navy Patrols: A robust naval presence is vital to deterring further encroachment and ensuring Filipino sovereignty.
• Expansion of the Stealth Runner Project: Building a larger fleet of Stealth Runners will provide wider coverage and support for our fisherfolk.
• Continued International Cooperation: Partnering with like-minded nations to uphold freedom of navigation in the WPS is crucial.

The situation in the WPS demands decisive action. The Filipino people deserve a secure and prosperous future, and that can only be achieved by protecting our territorial waters. Let us all stand behind the Philippine Navy and our fisherfolk in safeguarding our national interests in the West Philippine Sea.