By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to defend the nation’s territorial integrity, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced on Monday (26 Aug 2024) its continued commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the West Philippine Sea, despite China’s aggressive actions within Philippine waters.
AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. expressed confidence in the military’s ability to deter any armed attack, revealing that the Philippine forces tested their own flares in the West Philippine Sea last week. This move follows China’s recent use of similar devices against Philippine aircraft conducting air patrols in the region.
“We have that capability, but since we adhere to international laws, we don’t use them against others,” Brawner told reporters during a National Heroes’ Day event.
Flares are typically employed for signaling and illumination and can serve as countermeasures against heat-seeking missiles in combat scenarios.
Brawner also pointed out that China has been using flares not only against the Philippines but also against U.S. and Australian aircraft operating over the South China Sea.
Despite the risks, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) will continue their patrols over the West Philippine Sea.
“This is a form of warning from the other side, but for us, it is a dangerous maneuver. If a flare hits us, it could cause a severe incident. Our aircraft could explode or a ship could catch fire if struck by flares,” Brawner explained.
(ia/mnm)
