MANILA – Filipino military units carried out a maritime patrol and conducted ground activities on Likas Island, one of the Philippine-occupied features in the West Philippine Sea, on Thursday.
In a statement Friday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said these activities are part of its efforts to assert the country's sovereign rights and demonstrate an enduring presence in the area.
"The visit to Likas featured a ship-to-shore operation, direct engagements with deployed personnel, and interviews with troops on the ground. Beyond their operational function, these activities served to reaffirm the AFP’s support for its front-line units, boost troop morale, and demonstrate the Philippines’ sustained and visible presence in the area," it added.
Likas Island is one of the Philippine-occupied features in the WPS and plays a key role in maintaining maritime situational awareness and supporting national defense objectives in the region.
"Through these engagements, the AFP reaffirmed its commitment to the morale and welfare of its troops stationed in remote areas and highlighted the strategic significance of continued operations in the KIG (Kalayaan Island Group)," the AFP said.
Earlier, the AFP also conducted a maritime patrol in Parola as part of efforts to secure the WPS on June 4.
"The patrol is one of a series of maritime operations being conducted from June 4 to June 7 to reinforce the country's sovereign rights over its maritime domains in the Kalayaan Island Group. These operations are part of the AFP’s commitment to maintaining a credible defense posture in the region," it added.
While aboard the offshore patrol vessel BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17), AFP personnel established direct communications with the Parola detachment to synchronize updates, assess operational conditions, and express support for the troops deployed to this remote post.
The activity served to maintain clear situational awareness and ensure coordinated maritime security efforts in the area.
"The AFP’s sustained presence in the KIG reaffirms the Philippines’ commitment to peace, regional stability, and a rules-based international order, assuring Filipinos of its continued vigilance in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests," the AFP added. (PNA)