WITH tensions in the West Philippine Sea continuing to rise, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has instructed the Philippine Army to be prepared against external threats.

This is amid the continuing growing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Marcos made the statement at the Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division at Camp Melchor dela Cruz in Gamu.

The Chief Executive said that the northern part of the Philippines should be well-prepared for any eventuality. 

Marcos Jr., noted that the country is within China’s area of interest given its proximity to Taiwan.

“And that is why — the external threat now has become more pronounced, has become more worrisome. And that is why we have to prepare,” he said.

“So, that is the mission that you have before you. Now, you have two missions, whereas before it was only internal security,” he added.

Courtesy: AFP

The situation in the WPS has escalated with several water cannon incidents.

Marcos Jr., had been vocal about protecting the WPS territory saying that the Philippines will not give an inch.

“We are not trying to take territory. We are not trying to redraw the lines of sovereign territory, the EEZ, the baseline,” he said.

“Hindi natin binabago anything na kahit isang — not even one inch. Ngunit hindi tayo puwedeng pumayag na kukunin naman ‘yan sa atin.”