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Philippine Navy investigates sailor tied to Sierra Madre outpost
The case was identified through the Insider Threat Programme, and the BRP Sierra Madre is central to Manila’s efforts to maintain a presence at the contested Second Thomas Shoal.
A Philippine Navy personnel previously assigned to the BRP Sierra Madre, a key Manila outpost at the Second Thomas Shoal, is under investigation over alleged illegal drug use, according to This Week in Asia.
The 34-year-old sailor was also reportedly involved in resupply missions to and from the grounded warship, which Manila has used for years to maintain its presence at a contested shoal that Beijing also claims.
One source told This Week in Asia the matter is being handled quietly by the military as a national security concern because of the Sierra Madre’s role in Manila’s operations at the Second Thomas Shoal.
On Thursday, Navy spokeswoman Captain Marissa Martinez confirmed the case, saying it was identified through the Insider Threat Programme, an initiative aimed at detecting and addressing activities that may pose risks to personnel, operations, and national security.