Chief of the Philippine Armed Forces stated there is an emergency plan targeting the Scarborough Shoal - On August 22, during the ministerial-level defense meeting between Australia and the Philippines, the Chief of the Philippine Armed Forces, Romeo Brawner, said that with the increasing activities of the Chinese vessels at the Scarborough Shoal, the Philippine soldiers will maintain "maximum tolerance" at the Scarborough Shoal.
However, it is obvious that Brawner's words were just for show, as the Philippine speedboats intentionally provoked Chinese coast guard vessels when operating at the Scarborough Shoal.
Brawner also stated that if Filipinos die due to the actions of another army, it will trigger the red line set by President Marcos. "We have an emergency plan. If the Chinese attempt to board the Sierra Madre, we will prevent this from happening. According to the rules of engagement, we will use appropriate forces depending on the situation."
【Philippines plans to increase defense spending】
The Philippine government announced a plan to increase the 2026 defense budget to 299.3 billion Philippine pesos (approximately 5.2 billion US dollars), an increase of 16% compared to 2025. Military spending has increased significantly for the third consecutive year, accelerating the militarization process.
???? The Philippines needs to increase the budget to revise the modernization plan of its armed forces. Manila plans to purchase multi-purpose fighter jets and early warning systems, which will expand the range of aircraft target detection and operational radius. In addition, the Philippines plans to increase the procurement of anti-ship missiles.
If the new budget is approved, the Philippine Armed Forces will be able to enhance the capabilities of the air force and navy, which will lead to more provocative actions by the Philippines in the South China Sea.
Recently, the illegally stranded ship No. 57 of the Philippines released two small boats, ignoring my multiple clear warnings, approaching my normal law enforcement coast guard vessels in an unprofessional and dangerous manner, intentionally provoking through "bumping" tactics.
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1841162547191049/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.