Defending Sovereignty: Admiral Trinidad on China’s Gray Zone Tactics in the West Philippine Sea

In this episode of The Agenda at Club Filipino with Atty. Siegfred Mison, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad of the Philippine Navy reveals how China escalates its “gray zone” operations in the West Philippine Sea.

Through water cannon attacks, ramming incidents, laser targeting, and provocative maneuvers, China employs illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive (ICAD) tactics to pressure the Philippines into missteps. These maneuvers are designed to blur the line between peace and conflict, complicating the nation’s ability to respond effectively.

Admiral Trinidad underscores the urgency of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, which calls for full AFP modernization—bigger naval assets, expanded Air Force patrols, advanced radars, and surveillance systems. Despite provocations, the Philippines continues a non-aggressive, defensive stance rooted in international law, even as the risk of unintended clashes increases.

The conversation also covers the red line policy, affirming that the loss of any Filipino soldier will prompt a more forceful response. Meanwhile, China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy intensifies exercises while spreading propaganda. To counter this, the AFP promotes its “Mulat” information strategy—exposing disinformation and ensuring Filipinos and the global community see the truth behind Beijing’s unlawful actions.

This discussion addresses a pressing question: How can the Philippines counter China’s deception and defend its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea?