By Eva C. Visperas

 

AT a time when the West Philippine Sea is often a theater of intimidation, coercion, and calculated aggression, rare moments of tactical brilliance remind us of the courage and skill of our defenders. These are moments that not only lift the nation’s spirits but also reaffirm our faith in the Filipino’s resilience.

Such was the case recently when Second District Rep. Mark Cojuangco stood on the floor of Congress to pay tribute to the commander and crew of the BRP Suluan. His privilege speech was more than a formal recognition — it was a heartfelt salute to men and women who daily put their lives on the line to safeguard our sovereignty.

The incident that prompted Cojuangco’s praise was nothing short of extraordinary. On a mission near Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) to escort Filipino fishing boats delivering aid and support, the BRP Suluan found itself aggressively pursued by two Chinese vessels, a China Coast Guard ship and a People’s Liberation Army Navy warship. The situation was dangerous, the threat real, and the odds stacked against our vessel. Yet, what followed was a display of seamanship so masterful that it turned the tables on the aggressors.

Through quick thinking, precise maneuvering, and unshakable composure, the Suluan’s crew not only evaded capture and avoided harm but also managed to outwit their pursuers. In a twist that almost seemed cinematic, the larger China Coast Guard vessel collided with its own navy warship in the heat of the chase.

As Cojuangco himself described, it was like watching a scene from the “Roadrunner” cartoons — only this was real life, unfolding on the high seas under the constant shadow of danger. It was seamanship born from years of discipline, rigorous training, and a deep love for country. It was also a testament to what makes our uniformed men and women exceptional: their courage under pressure and their ability to remain composed in the face of overwhelming odds.

But beyond the humor in this incident, we must recognize the seriousness of the mission. Every patrol in the West Philippine Sea carries the risk of escalation. Our Philippine Coast Guard, Navy, and other maritime forces are not simply steering vessels; they are confronting powerful, heavily armed ships of a much larger and wealthier nation. The imbalance in resources is stark. Yet our men and women go out there — day after day — knowing full well that their duty could place them in harm’s way.

That is why moments like Cojuangco’s tribute matter. Public recognition from our leaders serves as a morale boost. It tells our servicemen and women that they are not invisible, that their sacrifices are seen, appreciated, and honored.

However, moral support, while vital, must be accompanied by concrete actions — investment in modern equipment, continuous training, welfare programs for their families, and clear national policies that uphold their mission.

Our defenders cannot be expected to match China’s military might ship for ship, but they can — and do — match them in skill, resolve, and courage. And when these are coupled with strong governmental and public backing, the message to any aggressor is unmistakable: The Philippines will not yield an inch of its rightful territory.

Cojuangco deserves praise for taking cognizance of this heroism. In a Congress often mired in partisanship and political wrangling, his speech was a refreshing reminder that national pride and sovereignty should unite us all, regardless of political color.

The BRP Suluan’s recent encounter is more than a story of a lucky escape. It is a parable of Filipino grit: resourcefulness prevailing over brute force, ingenuity turning the tables on intimidation, and humor softening the edges of danger.

To the crew of BRP Suluan, and to every Filipino in uniform who patrols our seas, we owe more than applause. We see you. We honor you. And like Cojuangco, we believe in you — not just as defenders of our seas, but as symbols of what the Filipino spirit can achieve when it is tested by fire.

And as long as there are Filipinos like those aboard the BRP Suluan, the world will know: We may be small in size, but our courage is boundless, and our sovereignty is not for sale.

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