Philippine Navy Completes Holiday Resupply Mission in West Philippine Sea

In a successful operation, the Philippine Navy completed the rotation and resupply of its troops stationed at nine strategic locations in the West Philippine Sea, just in time for the holiday season. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Navy’s spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, announced that the mission, which took place from December 3 to December 14, was executed without any incidents. The operation involved a variety of Philippine Armed Forces (AFP) ships tailored to the needs of the nine different detachments. During the mission, two China Coast Guard vessels and two People’s Liberation Army Navy ships were observed near Ayungin Shoal, but they did not engage in any illegal or coercive activities. A highlight of the mission was the delivery of Noche Buena packages to the troops, boosting their morale as they continue to serve their country over sea, land, and air. Trinidad reflected on the year 2024 as a success for the AFP, despite challenges in the West Philippine Sea, the northern islands, and the eastern seaboard of the Philippines. He expressed optimism for further achievements in 2025.