EMPHASIZING the ongoing territorial dispute with Asian super power China, the Philippine government realized that it is never too late to equip the country’s security forces with a much-needed upgrade, in case the worst case scenario arises.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) modernization program has been long overdue, but now is the perfect time to make it happen as part of the country’s improving economy.
The Philippines has been lagging behind its neighbors in the region for decades. Allocating funds for the nation’s defense strategy should also be considered as part of long-term development.
Moreover, the government should maximize the support given by the international community in its claim in the contested waters.
The United States last week allotted $20 million for the Philippines’ National Coast Watch Center to enhance the country’s maritime border security.
University of the Philippines Institute of Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea director Jay Batongbacal suggested that the country should consider using a different approach other than waiting for the resolution of the arbitration case filed before the international tribunal.
The maritime expert said the government should very carefully think about China’s proposal of joint exploration and development to ensure that the Philippines does not end up with nothing when worse comes to worst.
Such act would be beneficial to both countries.
While the Philippines awaits the decision of the tribunal court on its case against China, the country must prepare backup plans, since Beijing does not credit the powers of the international court over the dispute.
(AJPress)
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