Structures for WPS
By
“WITH the movement of the people there occupying the lands, I ordered my military to occupy the remaining 10 islands which are not inhabited, place our flag, then put some structures. I claim these islands as property of the Philippines. It’s become everybody is grabbing every land there in South China Sea, so if we do not act fast, we will end-up with nothing.” — President Duterte
As foreword, we must learn from the lessons of the West Philippine Sea and how this is applied in the formulation for the “Philippine Ridge” or Benham Rise. Assurances by neighboring countries, particularly those who violated “innocent passage,” by conducting oceanographic studies and crisscrossing the area to Surigao Strait cannot be trusted. Theodore Roosevelt popularized the “Talk softly, but carry a big stick.” Breaking down diplomatic protocols coached in gracious speeches – the “big stick” is the language in real politik which creates respect when international leaders face each other the first time. Presidents, prime ministers, premieres, etc. logically have this at the back of their minds – How big a stick is their counterpart carrying in terms of economy, potential trade, and more, military arsenal? This determines the tipping of the calculus, whether a state visit is of “equals” or of emperors with vassals paying homage.
The Benham Rise commission may be a special office created by the Palace to develop and make recommendations to develop and maintain our sovereign rights over the expanse. One approach is for UP to tie-up with US-based Universities and American oceanographic science and research organizations for academic studies. Further, agreements with Stateside power and gas companies for joint exploration is a must. The presence of such civilian nationals will string-up US naval presence in the area.
In the disputed West Philippine Sea, structures and support systems must be constructed ASAP. The lead-in to the plan is to strengthen civilian use, enliven tourist prospects, and “study tours” to the Islands. This will be the basis why coast guard presence and military installations are increased. Reviving the once-approved project during DFA Secretary Domingo Siazon’s watch, thumbed down as “provocative,” is a step in the right direction. A light house on Kalayaan? New pier? Coast Guard facility? Mini hospital? Refurbish the school and government office? Fix the runway? Establish/boost desalination systems? Ice plant? Encourage migrations where applicable? Reclaim a cove for Filipino fishermen and private yatchs? Construct “tourist resorts” with leisure capabilities, e.g., jet ski, banana boats, and others?
* * * PERSONAL: Congrats to the new Cebu commentators SUKNA officers. President Richard Alfajora Dyla; Vice President Max Andrino; Secretary-General Cesar Albor; Paulus Canete, VP-Radio; Boy Patalinhug, VP-TV; Efren Lonzon, VP-Print; Zacarias Aragon, treasurer; George de la Peña, auditor.