In between turquoise waters and rich fishing grounds in the Spratly Islands — a major archipelago in the South China Sea — are nine islands and reefs where Filipino troops stand guard. While their powdery white sands and crystal clear waters could rival Boracay’s or El Nido’s, the maritime features are prized more for their geopolitical importance, making them the subject of a claims dispute among the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Taiwan and Malaysia. In a weeklong sail in late June, the Inquirer joined the BRP Mangyan (AC-71), a World War II-era Philippine Navy auxiliary ship, for a maritime patrol and to bring fresh troops and supplies to seven of nine military outposts in these disputed areas: Likas (West York), Kota (Loaita), Panata (Lankiam Cay), Parola (Northeast Cay), Pag-asa (Thitu), Patag (Flat) and Lawak (Nanshan).

Mangosing, F. (2022, July 11). For PH troops in Spratlys, hope comes wrapped in fresh supplies. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A4.