The West Philippine Sea (WPS) remains a flashpoint of territorial disputes, with tensions escalating following the recent harassment of Filipino vessels by Chinese forces. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently stated that the Philippines will not deploy warships, colloquially called “gray ships,” to the disputed waters, emphasizing that “we are not warring with China.” While this stance reflects a cautious and diplomatic approach, critics argue that showing a stronger military presence is vital to asserting the country’s sovereignty. The question therefore of whether or not to send warships to the WPS is a dilemma that should take into account diplomacy, national defense, and regional stability.

The West Philippine Sea dilemma. (2024, December 13). Daily Tribune, p. A5.