“Indian Army Fought Back, We Did Not”: Philippines Expert Slams Government’s Response to SCS Clash

Keywords: Philippines, Chinese troops, South China Sea (SCS), clash, military expert, Indian Army, government response, territorial dispute, Scarborough Shoal, Ayungin Shoal,

A leading Philippines military expert has criticized the government’s response to recent aggressive actions by Chinese vessels near Ayungin Shoal, highlighting the stark contrast with India’s firm stance against similar Chinese incursions.

“The Indian Army fought back, we did not,” said [Expert’s Name], a retired [rank] from the Philippine Armed Forces. He pointed to the recent incident in the Galwan Valley where Indian troops engaged in a deadly standoff with Chinese soldiers. “While India stood its ground, our government has been hesitant to take decisive action, opting for diplomatic channels instead.”

The expert’s comments come on the heels of multiple incidents involving Chinese vessels using lasers and water cannons against Philippine vessels near Ayungin Shoal. The Philippines claims the shoal as part of its territory, but China continues to assert its own claims.

“[Expert’s Name] argued that the Philippine government’s strategy of appeasement has emboldened China, leading to increased aggression in the SCS. He urged the government to adopt a stronger stance, drawing parallels with India’s proactive approach to securing its territory.

“The lack of a strong response from the Philippines sends a message of weakness, encouraging further Chinese incursions,” he added.

The Philippines’ current situation in the SCS reflects a wider trend in the region, where smaller nations struggle to defend their territorial claims against China’s growing assertiveness. As tensions escalate, the Philippines’ approach to its SCS dispute will be a crucial test for its national security and regional stability.