NTF-WPS prepping for next resupply mission

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea said on Tuesday that it is continuously coming up with concrete actions in anticipation of the forthcoming resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre at the Ayungin Shoal.

NTF-WPS vice chair Nestor Herico told members of the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea that the agency "is continuously conducting and planning scenario war-games in the conduct of our operations and fighting for our sovereign rights, and sovereignty jurisdiction in the WPS."

Herico assured the panel, which probed the 22 October incident wherein a Chinese militia vessel made a dangerous maneuver that led to the collision with a Philippine supply boat, that the NTF-WPS is planning a fiercer response to stave off such a recurrence on its next resupply operation.

During the deliberations, committee chairperson Mandaluyong Rep. Neptali Gonzales II vowed support to the NTF-WPS and the Philippine Coast Guard in further safeguarding the country's national interest in light of the geopolitical tensions between the Philippines and China that have so far intensified.

"Our committee is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Philippines and its people… We called this meeting to serve as a platform for open dialogue, ensuring that we address the challenges head-on and work towards a peaceful, cooperative future in the West Philippine Sea," Gonzales said in his opening speech.

"Tensions are high, and it comes when we are experiencing numerous simultaneous conflicts around the world. The frequent incidents prompted by Chinese vessels in the WPS is a serious cause for concern."

The collision was China's most recent aggression towards the Philippine vessels, adding to a series of past attacks, including the military-grade laser-pointing and firing of water cannons, among others.