More warships have been deployed to the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as part of the Philippine Navy’s continued maritime operations in the disputed area to ensure the safety and security of Filipino fishermen who make a living in the territory that China claims, following the operation of Beijing’s controversial Coast Guard law. The additional ships were sent to the WPS following the orders of Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana to the military to increase its presence and visibility in the resource-rich waters of WPS, a traditional fishing ground for Filipinos. This, in the aftermath of the issuance of the Chinese communist government edict to shoot at foreign vessels even in maritime waters that it is contesting.

Acosta, R. (2021, February 20). 'Powder keg'. Business Mirror, p. A1.