Quezon city: The Department of National Defense (DND) has announced that strategic plans are underway for constructing bases and procuring modern equipment to enhance security in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). "Well, nakaplano na po 'yan. Ang inuuna natin ay ang strategic basing," stated DND spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong during an interview in Quezon City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Andolong emphasized that the relocation of bases is intended to strengthen deterrence capabilities up to the limits of the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). This move is part of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which aims to defend all Philippine territories, including its 200-nautical-mile EEZ.

In addition to strategic basing, the DND is focusing on enhancing maritime domain awareness. The plan includes acquiring necessary sensors to enable government forces to monitor activities beyond the horizon. Following this, the DND intends to obtain assets for conducting patrols and aerial reconnaissance in the WPS.