Teodoro: ‘Change in momentum’ in 2028 could slow WPS efforts

MANILA, Philippines — A change in administration after the 2028 elections could slow the Philippines’ efforts to protect its interests in the West Philippine Sea, warned Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. even as he maintained the country continues to strengthen its defenses.

Asked about the possibility that the country could lose the gains it has so far achieved in asserting its maritime rights under a different administration, Teodoro told the Saturday News Forum “You cannot say there is no chance. There really is a chance [that will happen].”

He said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration had sought to ensure continuity in its security policy. “So, whoever assumes office, of course, there could be a change in momentum, and this is also dangerous because this is a race. It is a race in resilience,” he said.

“This is very important because quality of life and sustenance are not only about the present. What we plant now will be reaped by future generations,” he said when asked how important the West Philippine Sea is as an election issue.

“It is important that this continues. If it is interrupted or stopped, the sacrifices and the gains we have made in strengthening our position in a short period would be wasted,” he added.

He also said rotation and resupply (Rore) missions to Ayungin Shoal will continue despite the latest Chinese interference that forced the military to abort an operation last week.

“Rore mission is a mission of the Republic of the Philippines and it has to go on,” Teodoro said. “Naturally, we have to do it. But we’ll not tell how, when, where.”

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Friday said it temporarily suspended a Rore mission to Ayungin after Chinese vessels began closing in on the Philippine convoy about 111 kilometers from the shoal.

“We submitted our recommendation to the National Security Adviser, and we are not allowed to share it with the public. But the bottom line is, that Rore is a Philippine mission, and we will not be deterred,” Teodoro said. /das

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