THE Philippines is considering the possibility of placing American troops on standby in other areas of the West Philippine Sea, following the establishment of a task force dedicated to Ayungin Shoal, Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel “Babe” Romualdez confirmed on Friday.
“[This is] still under consideration by [the Department of National Defense],” Romualdez told reporters when asked about the potential deployment of US forces to additional areas in the disputed maritime region.
The creation of US Task Force Ayungin, recently disclosed by US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, underscores Washington’s commitment to supporting Philippine forces in the country’s territorial waters.
However, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año clarified that American troops would not engage in actual missions in the West Philippine Sea.
Romualdez noted that the task force is aligned with the Philippines’ Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States.
The VFA, in effect since 1999, enables US troops to assist their Filipino counterparts in disaster response and counter-terrorism efforts. Meanwhile, the MDT commits both nations to mutual defense in case of aggression.
In a statement to reporters, the US Defense Press Operations highlighted the task force as part of a “decades-long partnership” with the Philippines, aimed at advancing shared security interests in the region.
Ayungin Shoal: A Symbol of Sovereignty
Ayungin Shoal, located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan within the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ), has long been a flashpoint in territorial disputes with China. Beijing claims the shoal as part of its territory, despite international rulings rejecting its expansive claims in the South China Sea.
Since 1999, the Philippine Navy has stationed troops aboard the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded World War II-era vessel, at Ayungin Shoal. The ship has become a symbol of Philippine sovereignty but has faced repeated harassment from Chinese forces, particularly during resupply missions in recent months.
These incidents have heightened tensions in the region, drawing increased US-Philippine cooperation under existing defense agreements. The establishment of Task Force Ayungin and discussions about expanding the American troop presence underscore both nations’ resolve to uphold regional security and territorial integrity.
As developments unfold, Manila and Washington continue to demonstrate solidarity in addressing the challenges posed by China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.