A strong ally

The US Navy’s Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) entered the South China Sea last April 4th. Their purpose is to conduct freedom of navigation and overflights and to "conduct flight operations with fixed and rotary-wing aircraft and maritime strike exercises." They want to "reassure our allies and partners that we remain committed to freedom of the seas." Coincidentally, China is currently conducting military exercises in the east and west of Taiwan. To the west warships conduct exercises while to the east military aircraft have simulated combat operations. You don't have to be a genius to see China seemingly surrounding and flexing its military strength to Taiwan which it regards as a renegade state.

Taiwan's foreign minister stated they would fight to the end if China invades them. Taiwan happens to be a strong ally of America. Most of Taiwan's military equipment and weapons are of American origin. I wouldn’t be surprised why the TRCSG entered the South China Sea if only to show China they are just around the corner. The United States already stated if China attacks AFP ships or planes they will fulfill their obligations based on the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT). I'm certain the same goes if China attacks Taiwan. They are also expressing concern about the number of Chinese ships in the Julian Felipe Reef.

This is exactly what Deputy House Speaker Rufus Rodriguez wants. If America's presence in the West Philippine Sea is increased, the intrusion of Chinese ships, whether fishermen or not, will be limited. The US should have regular patrols in the region if only to deter the Chinese from entering our EEZ at will. It has challenged China’s claim to the entire ocean despite a UN tribunal decision thumbing it down. If America has expressed support for the country, I believe now is the time to show it.

But we have our president who shows his disdain for the US. He even wants to cancel the MDT and other agreements with them. His most loyal supporters agree. Only a handful in his Cabinet have the balls to call China out for its intrusions and declaring we need America as a strong ally. You will not hear that from senators, congressmen, and government officials who are very close to President Duterte. They are more inclined to praise and thank China and Russia. It is reassuring to hear America standing by our side despite the many times Duterte lashing out at them. We need a strong ally, not a so-called friend with no respect for our sovereignty or territorial rights.