The continued presence of the Chinese Coast Guard and militia vessels in the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone has hogged the news for the past several weeks now. The Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have repeatedly declared that they are ready to defend the nation’s sovereignty in the area. The Executive branch, through the Department of Foreign Affairs, has filed diplomatic protests, but the Chinese seem unfazed. Their unwelcome presence in the West Philippines Sea not only poses a serious challenge to the country’s sovereignty but equally important, is a threat to our food security.

Morales, J. (2023, March 2). Need to boost Phl's fishing fleet. Daily Tribune, p. B12.