Reports that the Senate has approved on the third and final reading a measure intended to help the country project a credible defense posture through the development of a national defense industry are music to our ears.

Envisioned in Senate Bill 2455, also called the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act, is a defense industry that can produce advanced weaponry and equipment for the Armed Forces, currently facing challenges in the West Philippine Sea.  

In the grand arena of geopolitical chess, where nations engage in a perpetual game of moves and countermoves, the Philippines finds itself at a crossroads in the disputed waters. Repeated harassment of Philippine vessels by Chinese Coast Guard and militia ships has made the Act a necessity.

The tension with China has become the proverbial elephant in the room, and it's high time the Philippines donned its armor and embraced the art of credible defense. After all, who wouldn't want to see a nation flex its muscles in the face of adversity?

Let's be honest. The West Philippine Sea has been the stage for a drama that rivals the most intense telenovelas. With its cast of characters, including naval fleets, disputed islands, and vast natural resources, the storyline is nothing short of gripping. With its expansive claims and assertive actions, China has taken the role of the antagonist, leaving the Philippines with little choice but to step up its defense game.

So, why should the Philippines bother with a credible defense posture, you ask? For starters, it's an opportunity to showcase some seriously impressive military hardware. Picture this: A formidable naval force cutting through the waves, fighter jets screaming through the sky, and a high-tech missile defense system that would make even James Bond jealous. A credible defense posture is, after all, the ultimate fashion statement for any self-respecting nation.

Moreover, a robust defense posture is like having insurance for the geopolitical realm. It's the shield that says, "We're not to be trifled with."

As tensions rise in the West Philippine Sea, having a credible defense is akin to having a bouncer at the club entrance, ensuring that no one gets too rowdy. It's about maintaining peace and order in the neighborhood, but with a touch of flair and sophistication.