AFP boosting WPS patrols with more assets

The Armed Forces of the Philippines is augmenting its presence in the West Philippine Sea with additional naval and air assets, supported by other government agencies like the Philippine Coast Guard and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.

As directed by President Rodrigo Duterte, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea has coordinated the deployment of more assets including four PCG vessels, one aircraft, five BFAR vessels, and PNP-MG tactical watercraft to assert sovereignty and combat illegal fishing in disputed waters.

These efforts come amid continued Chinese presence near Julian Felipe Reef within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.