PH Navy to build monitoring station at Tubbataha Reef

The Philippine Navy on Thursday said that a station is set to be established at Tubbataha Reef for conservation and maritime monitoring efforts.

The announcement came after previous reports of Chinese presence in the area.

“So far ang namo-monitor natin ‘yung mga kapag pumapasok ang mga warships nila conducting [freedom of navigation operations] or innocent passage, one time. [China Coast Guard], wala akong maalala na na-monitor natin diyan sa loob. [People's Liberation Army Navy] dumadaan diyan sa loob,” Philippine Navy spokesperson for West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad told reporters.

(So far we have been monitoring when their warships come in conducting freedom of navigation operations or innocent passage, one time. China Coast Guard, I don't remember that we monitored them there. The People's Liberation Army Navy was passing there.)

“Last year yung galing ng Bajo de Masinloc, bumaba sa Mindoro sa Verde Island Passage. Bumaba diyan tapos nag-exit sa may Basilan-Jolo area,” he added.

(Last year, the ones coming from Bajo de Masinloc, went down to Mindoro in the Verde Island Passage. They went down there and then exited in the Basilan-Jolo area.)

However, Trinidad noted that the Philippine Navy’s monitoring station at Tubbataha Reef is “more of environmental protection.”

When asked about the specific equipment that will be deployed in the station, Trinidad refused to disclose, describing such matters as “too operational.”

The Western Naval Command (WNC) on Tuesday formalized its partnership with the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) through the signing of a memorandum of understanding.

According to the command, the deal establishes a Naval Monitoring Detachment at the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Ranger Station. 

This move will enhance maritime monitoring and conservation efforts, strengthening inter-agency coordination for effective maritime situational awareness in the Sulu Sea, the military said.

The new detachment will provide real-time naval support for patrols, surveillance, and rapid response, the Western Naval Command said.

"This MoU represents our commitment to protecting our vital marine ecosystems while safeguarding national security. By integrating naval assets with TMO's expertise, we fortify our defenses against illegal activities and promote sustainable maritime stewardship,” said Rear Admiral Vincent Sibala, commander of the Western Naval Command. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News