Naval Forces West revamped as Western Naval Command to enhance WPS security

The Philippine Navy said Tuesday that its Naval Forces West has officially transitioned into the Western Naval Command (WesNavCom) to meet the security demands in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a statement, the newly renamed and reorganized WesNavCom said the transition ceremony was held at the Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Tuesday.

WesNavCom is now tasked with enhancing maritime security operations and asserting a proactive defense posture across the nation’s western maritime frontier, according to the command.

“This strategic realignment aligns with the Philippine Navy’s vision to maintain a credible defense force capable of responding to emerging security challenges,” WesNavCom said.

Philippine Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, who presided over the ceremony, pointed out that the command’s expanded mandate and renewed focus on operational excellence.

“The formal renaming and elevation of Naval Forces West to Western Naval Command supports our unwavering determination to pursue a holistic defense posture anchored in the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept and highlights the growing role that each of you will play to protect our seas and secure our maritime nation's future,” he said.

For his part, WesNavCom commander Commodore Vincent Sibala encouraged troops to be brave and ready to address challenges in their area.

“As we embark on this new chapter, let us lead with unwavering courage and steadfast conviction-standing united as one force, ready to confront every challenge with resilience and determination,” he said.

“Together, we embody the strength of our solidarity and the unbreakable commitment to defend what is rightfully ours and secure a prosperous future for our nation,” he added.

Tensions continue as Beijing claims almost all of the South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of annual shipborne commerce, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.

Parts of the South China Sea that fall within Philippine territory have been renamed by the government as West Philippine Sea to reinforce the country’s claim.

The West Philippine Sea refers to the maritime areas on the western side of the Philippine archipelago including Luzon Sea and the waters around, within and adjacent to the Kalayaan Island Group and Bajo de Masinloc.

In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines over China's claims in the South China Sea, saying that it had "no legal basis."

Beijing has refused to recognize the decision. —Joviland Rita/RF, GMA Integrated News