New guard takes charge of the West Philippine Sea

Carmela Fonbuena

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New guard takes charge of the West Philippine Sea
Rear Admiral Rene Medina used to be the commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao based in Zamboanga City

MANILA, Philippines — Rear Admiral Rene Medina assumed the post as new commander of Western Command (Wescom) in Palawan, the military unit responsible for protecting the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Armed Forces chief of staff General Benjamin Madrigal led the change of command ceremony on Saturday, March 2.

Medina assumes command as the country continues to navigate ties with the US — its treaty ally — and China, the powerful neighbor that lays claim to practically all of the South China Sea. 

President Rodrigo Duterte appears to have set aside previous plans to pivot away from the United States (US) as he builds warmer ties with China. 

The US has committed to assist the Philippines in the event of armed attacks in the disputes seas.

US Secretary State Mike Pompeo in his visit to Manila this week said the West Philippine Sea is covered under the 67-year-old Mutual Defense Treaty, a clarification the Philippines has been seeking since 2012. 

Before this appointment, Medina was commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao based in Zamboanga City. — Rappler.com

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