Teodoro Advocates for 'Expeditionary Navy' to Secure Maritime Resources

MANILA, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Thursday pushed for the country to have an “expeditionary navy” to secure its ships and sailors while it rebuilds its maritime industry and seeks to make better use of its vast maritime domain. “We need an expeditionary navy to be able to protect Filipino seafarers and support maritime activities,” Teodoro said. His statement came as the Philippines aims to strengthen its maritime capabilities amid increasing assertiveness in the West Philippine Sea, which is part of the South China Sea. The country’s maritime domain is vast and rich in resources, but securing these and ensuring the safety of Filipino seafarers, who are a vital part of the national economy, remains a challenge. An expeditionary navy would be capable of projecting power and presence in distant waters, allowing the Philippines to effectively protect its maritime interests, including fishing grounds and potential resource exploration areas. This would also bolster the country’s ability to respond to maritime security threats and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in the region. The development of an expeditionary navy would require significant investment in modern naval assets, advanced training for personnel, and robust logistical support. However, proponents argue that the long-term benefits of securing the nation’s maritime resources and protecting its seafarers would outweigh the costs. Teodoro’s call for an expeditionary navy signals a potential shift in the Philippines’ defense posture, emphasizing a more proactive approach to maritime security and resource management.