Philippine Navy Prepares for Balikatan: Key Developments in WPS

Recent Developments in the West Philippine Sea: A Comprehensive Overview

Date: March 19, 2025

In the last 24 hours, significant developments have unfolded in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), underscoring the complex geopolitical dynamics and the Philippines’ proactive stance in safeguarding its maritime interests.

The Philippine Navy has announced plans to showcase its military capabilities during the forthcoming “Balikatan” joint exercises with the United States and allied nations, scheduled for mid-April. As part of these large-scale exercises, the Navy intends to demonstrate its advanced missile systems, including the C-Star surface-to-surface anti-ship missiles and Spike NLOS missiles. Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta reaffirmed that these exercises aim to enhance interoperability among allied forces in response to growing tensions in the region.

Simultaneously, the Philippine Navy is set to provide essential support to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in establishing new marine scientific research stations in the WPS. These stations, located at Recto Bank, Rizal Reef, and Pag-asa Island, will focus on biodiversity conservation and contribute to national security by reinforcing the country’s maritime monitoring capabilities. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad highlighted the Navy’s commitment to ensuring the safety and success of these research initiatives, which are complemented by the upcoming “Peace and Solidarity Sea Concert” organized by the Atin Ito Coalition.

Furthermore, the Atin Ito Coalition’s¹ concert aims to foster unity and cultural exchange among fisherfolk and civil society groups from the Philippines and neighboring countries. The AFP has expressed support for this civilian-led mission, reinforcing its readiness to assist civic organizations that advocate for the rights and welfare of communities within the WPS.

In related news, Akbayan Partylist² has intensified its call for accountability regarding environmental damages attributed to Chinese activities in the West Philippine Sea. During a protest organized outside the Chinese Consular Office in Makati, Akbayan urged the Philippine government to file a case before the International Court of Justice against China and demand reparations for the harm inflicted on marine ecosystems and local livelihoods.

As tensions continue to rise, these developments reflect the Philippines’ strategic approach in addressing both its environmental concerns and sovereignty issues while fostering cooperation between military and civil society efforts. The intricate interplay of domestic politics, regional diplomacy, and environmental advocacy underscores the ongoing significance of the West Philippine Sea in national discourse.

The convergence of military readiness, environmental stewardship, and community solidarity highlights the Philippines’ commitment to asserting its rights and responsibilities in this contested maritime region. As the situation evolves, the actions taken by various stakeholders will be pivotal in shaping the future of the West Philippine Sea.

Articles Referenced

1. Missions in WPS unaffected by grounding of fighter jets – PH Navy (Philippine News Agency)
2. Akbayan tells China to pack up and pay up for damages in the West PH Sea (ABS-CBN News)
3. After Duterte: clan politics and US influence in the Philippines (Morning Star)
4. PH Navy to flex anti-ship missiles in next ‘Balikatan’ (Philippine Daily Inquirer)
5. Navy to escort DENR in establishing West Philippine Sea marine research stations (The Philippine Star)
6. Panibagong civilian mission sa West Philippine Sea, welcome sa AFP (Radyo Pilipinas)

1. The Atin Ito Coalition is a non-governmental organization formed in 2023, dedicated to supporting the Philippines’ sovereignty claims in the South China Sea, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. This civilian-led initiative organizes convoys to deliver humanitarian supplies to Filipino troops stationed in contested areas, such as the Spratly Islands. Comprising various groups, including members of Akbayan and other civil society organizations, the coalition aims to raise awareness about territorial disputes while fostering solidarity among Filipinos. Through its activities, the Atin Ito Coalition advocates for national sovereignty and the welfare of Filipino soldiers and communities affected by geopolitical tensions in the region. ↩︎
2. The Akbayan Citizens’ Action Party, often referred to simply as Akbayan, is a progressive political party in the Philippines that was founded in 1998. Emerging in the aftermath of the Marcos dictatorship, Akbayan aims to address the democratic deficit experienced by marginalized and underrepresented groups in society. The party is committed to promoting inclusive governance, advocating for social justice, and implementing comprehensive reforms that benefit the broader population rather than the elite. Through civic engagement and grassroots mobilization, Akbayan seeks to empower citizens, ensuring their voices are integral to the political process and decision-making. The party represents a coalition of diverse sectors, including labor, farmers, youth, women, and LGBTQIA+ communities, all unified in the pursuit of progressive change in Philippine politics. ↩︎