Self-defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a state of mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending.
— Brazilian writer Rorion Gracie
MAYPAJO, Caloocan City — China’s escalating aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS)—from shadowing and ramming vessels to using military-grade lasers and spreading disinformation—has pushed the Philippines to strengthen its defensive posture and in response, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has launched a four-pillar strategy to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty, protect maritime rights, and uphold a rules-based international order.
Civic leader Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia, who is also chairman emeritus of the Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms (PADER), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI) and Filipinos Do Not Yield (FDNY) Movement, praised the AFP’s decisive initiatives, saying they reflect “a nation that refuses to bow to bullying and coercion.”
First, the AFP maintains consistent patrols across the West Philippine Sea, asserting Philippine sovereignty despite China’s aggressive maneuvers at sea.
Goitia emphasized: “Presence is power, especially when it is grounded in legality”—even with limited assets, demonstrating resolve and shows the world that strength is defined by commitment, not intimidation.
Second, the Philippines continues to broaden cooperation with allies and like-minded nations through joint patrols, maritime exercises, and coordinated diplomatic efforts.
According to Goitia: “When nations stand with you, aggression becomes harder to hide and impossible to justify”—these partnerships show that the Philippines is far from isolated and that China’s actions are under global scrutiny.
Third, the AFP uses real-time reporting, documentation, and international media engagement to expose China’s maritime aggression and counter fabricated narratives designed to mislead the public.
Goitia highlighted the power of truth: “Sunlight exposes deception. When the truth is seen, lies collapse”—this transparency initiative has strengthened the Philippines’ moral leverage and rallied global support.
Fourth, the Philippines has adopted a whole-of-nation approach, mobilizing government agencies, civil society, private institutions, and communities to counter China’s illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive tactics, including cyber intrusions, influence operations, and political interference.
Goitia underscored unity as the country’s strongest defense: “When the entire nation stands together, no external force can undermine our sovereignty.”
* * *
FOR your comments or suggestions, complaints or requests, just send a message through my email at cipcab2006@yahoo.com or text me at cellphone numbers 09171656792 or 09171592256 during office hours from Monday to Friday. Thank you and mabuhay!
