A pattern of trust: Building economic and defense security with like-minded partners

The aggressive acts habitually and deliberately committed by the Chinese are an affront to our sovereignty and a threat to our national security.

- VICTOR ANDRES C. MANHIT

But more than national security is involved — our economic security is also under threat. This is not something that the Philippines is taking sitting down.

Take the most recent incident on Oct. 12. Three vessels of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) were anchored near Pag-asa Island when Chinese Coast Guard and Maritime Militia vessels approached, conducted dangerous maneuvers, fired water cannons, and rammed the stern of one of the vessels. Fortunately, no crew members were injured.

The incident took place while the BFAR vessels were conducting a lawful resupply and monitoring mission, assisting fisherfolk under the Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda program of the government. What happened was not only an insult to Philippine sovereignty. It also disrupted a mission for fisherfolk already facing dire economic challenges as a result of being prevented by China from fishing in our own, legally determined waters.

Economic security means that individuals and communities can meet their essential needs over time. But if our fisherfolk cannot fish in our waters - their very source of livelihood - how can they put food on the table, maintain a decent home, or send their children to school?

While the Philippines is determined to assert its sovereignty and safeguard the economic security of its people, we recognize that we cannot do this alone. We are fortunate to have numerous partners that help strengthen our defense posture and provide our citizens with the stability they need to live with dignity.