Manila, June 6 -- Filipino military units carried out a maritime patrol and conducted ground activities on Likas Island, one of the Philippine-occupied features in the West Philippine Sea, on Thursday.

In a statement Friday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said these activities are part of its efforts to assert the country's sovereign rights and demonstrate an enduring presence in the area.

"The visit to Likas featured a ship-to-shore operation, direct engagements with deployed personnel, and interviews with troops on the ground. Beyond their operational function, these activities served to reaffirm the AFP's support for its front-line units, boost troop morale, and demonstrate the Philippines' sustained and visible presence i...