Wescom visits islands in West Phil Sea

From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 26): Wescom visits islands in West Phil Sea

Officials of the of Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP) led the troop in visiting the nine Philippine-held islands in the Kalayaan Islands Group (KIG) at the West Philippine Sea yesterday. The visit was led by AFP commander of western command Lt. Gen Juancho M. Sabban, who personally assessed the area of operations, particularly on the aspect of readiness as well as to boost morale of troops. The commander’s visit to the islands served as an opportunity for the military personnel to meet and talk with him in person about their issues and concerns. Christmas gifts, which included groceries and other supplies, were distributed to the soldiers. This has been the first activity that WESCOM has undertaken and is also one of the command activities as part of the yuletide celebration. Lt. Gen. Sabban commended the troops for their commitment to protect and defend the country. Likewise, he inspired them to be more resolute in the accomplishment of the defense mandate. “Our commitment is to perform our mandated mission, which is to protect our nation’s peace and its legitimate possessions and to defend our democracy and territorial integrity against all enemies – foreign and domestic, continues to be the moving force from where we draw our strength and inspiration,” he stressed. During the ocular inspection to the detachment facilities, the commander noted the operational hurdles that need to be addressed in strengthening WESCOM’s forces and enhancing its capabilities to meet the needs of today’s evolving environment. “With our continued confidence in our cause to make our sovereignty more secure and fortitude in making our organizations more formidable, we cannot be defeated and intimidated to keep our flag flying mightily. We will steadily deliver in being at the forefront. We will defend this country. And we will defend it to the end,” the commander added. The nine island detachments that were visited are Lawak Island, Patag Shoal, Likas Island, Parola Island, Pag-asa Island, Panata Shoal, Kota Island, Rizal Reef, and Ayungin.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=711353851194