Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 20) — The Philippines and United States are discussing joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea in the wake of China’s aggressive movements in the area, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
“This is not in the infancy stage. There is already clear path of possibility since the defense department of the United States has also supported the joint patrol with the Philippines Navy and the US Navy, so there is certainty in this particular joint patrol to happen,” PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela told CNN Philippines’ The Source.
The PCG earlier reported that the China Coast Guard (CCG) aimed a military-grade laser at BRP Malapascua that was en route to deliver supplies to Filipino troops stationed in BRP Sierra Madre, an outpost in Ayungin Shoal. Beijing has denied this, claiming that the equipment used was a “hand-held laser speed detector and hand-held green light pointer.”Tarriela said the planned joint patrols are in support of the freedom of navigation operation of the US.
Given the common mandate of the Philippine and US coast guards – including marine safety, marine protection, and maritime law enforcement – the conduct of joint patrols will also gain more regional cooperation since these can benefit ships passing the area, he noted.
Both parties have yet to agree on the timetable of patrols, he added.
Former National Security Adviser Clarita Carlos had said it is important for the Philippines to pursue joint patrols with its allies.
Last month, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said discussions are ongoing on maritime cooperation between Manila and Washington, including joint patrols. Other countries like Japan have expressed willingness to conduct joint patrols. These are still in their initial stages, Tarriela said.
