In compliance with the directive of Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff LtGen. Cirilito Sobejana to conduct aerial patrol at the Julian Felipe Reef, the Western Command has completed their patrol mission.
According to AFP Spokesperson MGen. Edgard Arevalo, the Wescom has dispatched earlier this morning a fixed wing aircraft to perform the mission. The patrol mission was completed at around 11:30AM today.
Currently, the report is being prepared to be submitted to Sobejana, as well as to the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea and Department of National Defense.
“The AFP maintains that it will oppose any acts of incursions or encroachment in our sovereign territory. Our mandate includes ensuring that our fisher folks and our Kababayan can freely take advantage of our maritime resources and conduct their livelihood in our EEZ,” insisted Arevalo
The Armed Forces also expressed support to the call of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana for the Chinese to stop incursion and recall their ships from the Philippine waters. However, Arevalo maintained the pursuit of a rules-based approach in resolving the issues in the contested territory. – Bea Bernardo
