Professor Anna Malindog‑Uy, Secretary General of the Association for Philippines‑China Understanding, described the West Philippine Sea (WPS) dispute as part of a “proxy information war” currently unfolding in the Philippines.
In her remarks, Uy pointed out that the United States has intervened through rotational deployments in the country, including the Typhoon missile system aimed at China.
She warned that the WPS issue is often politicized, especially with the 2028 elections on the horizon, and has even overshadowed other pressing concerns such as the unresolved flood control scandal.
Uy stressed that the Philippines should prioritize addressing internal problems—such as corruption, economic decline, and what she described as the country’s semi‑colonial dependence on the United States—rather than allowing geopolitical tensions to dominate the national agenda.
She cautioned that excessive focus on the WPS in politics and media risks diverting attention from the real needs of the people and the development of the local economy.
Calling on national leaders, Uy urged a shift in focus toward strengthening domestic governance and tackling systemic issues that directly affect Filipinos’ daily lives.
She emphasized that while the WPS remains a critical matter, it should not eclipse the urgent task of building a stronger, more self‑reliant nation.
