Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela has called on Filipino voters to support candidates in the upcoming May 2025 elections who are committed to defending the country’s sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In a GMA News Online report, Tarriela emphasized the need to elect leaders—whether senators, congressmen, or local officials—who prioritize national interests over foreign influence. He warned against politicians who align with China and disregard the efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the PCG in safeguarding the country’s waters.
“It will be difficult for the AFP to modernize and for the PCG to enhance its capabilities if we elect officials who do not consider the West Philippine Sea a priority,” Tarriela said.
While he clarified that he is not endorsing any specific candidate or political party, he urged the public to scrutinize candidates’ track records and positions on the territorial dispute before casting their votes.
“This issue is not about politics—it’s about national interest. Filipinos must ensure that those they elect truly support the country’s claim over the West Philippine Sea,” he added.
Tarriela also noted that Filipinos are now more informed about maritime security and will not be easily misled by political gimmicks.
The West Philippine Sea covers parts of the South China Sea within Philippine territory, including the Kalayaan Island Group and Bajo de Masinloc. Despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which invalidated China’s sweeping claims over the area, Beijing has continued to assert control.
