MANILA, Philippines — The appointment of Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro came in the midst of increased territorial tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). A political analyst and a lawmaker believe Teodoro has the legal expertise to tackle the issues. Salceda believed the new Defense chief’s civilian status was an edge. “Gibo carries with him a resolutely civilian – and therefore broader – perspective on the country’s defense situation,” he said. “As a middle-power in global affairs, our national defense is necessarily more complex than simply (about) military firepower,” he added.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer June 07, 2023 06:43 UTC