The Philippine Navy has reorganized the Naval Forces West into the newly established Western Naval Command, which will focus on addressing the reported "security demands" in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
During the ceremony held in Puerto Princesa City, Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta emphasized the need for an expanded mandate for the force, in line with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
Under its new structure, the mission of the Western Naval Command is to strengthen maritime security operations along the western frontier, with the support of additional personnel.
Meanwhile, Western Naval Command Commander Commodore Vincent Sibala urged his personnel to remain vigilant and courageous in the performance of their duties.
The jurisdiction of the Western Naval Command extends to the maritime areas surrounding Pag-asa Island and Ayungin Shoal, where the BRP Sierra Madre has been intentionally grounded as a military outpost.
