The Armed Forces of Philippines (AFP) will maintain its presence in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea) despite its non-participation in naval drills, Chief of Staff Gilbert Gapay said. Gapay gave the assurance in a television interview on Friday night after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a suspension of the exercises except in areas within the country’s 12-mile zone. He, however, said that “it doesn’t mean we’re backing down in our claim and in protecting our sovereignty in the area.”

Pesco, D. (2020, August 9). Military to keep presence in WPS. The Manila Times, p. A2.