Cordillerans Commemorate WPS Arbitral Victory
In a unified show of patriotism, remembrance, and advocacy, Cordillerans together with the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) through the 1st Civil Relations Group, CRSAFP in partnership with the Joint Task Unit “Panagkaykaysa” (JTUP) marks the 9th anniversary of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Arbitral Ruling through a commemorative event dubbed as “SEAries of Waves: WPS Victory Day – Our Seas. Our Rights. Our Future” on July 12, 2025 held at the Mall Atrium, SM City Baguio, Baguio City.
Anchored on the theme, “Honoring our Triumph, Defending our Seas,” this year’s commemoration highlights the Philippines’ historic legal victory in 2016, which reaffirmed the country’s sovereign rights over its maritime domains. The celebration serves not only as a remembrance of this legal milestone but also as an appeal to protect marine resources and uplifting the lives of Filipino fisherfolks and its coastal communities.
The event commenced with the Opening Ceremony, which featured the messages of confirmation for integrity and patriotism from the AFP, SM City Baguio Management, and LGU-Baguio, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance and national unity. Legal perspectives were also shared through “The West Philippine Sea in a Clamshell,” presented by Atty. John Ray Libiran simplifying complex maritime issues for public understanding. The highlight of the program is the Turnover of Livelihood Assistance to local fisherfolk groups, symbolizing the nation’s commitment to those who defend our seas daily through their work and resilience.
Meanwhile, the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony officially opened the event proper, unveiling a series of engaging activities including Static Display and Military Fair showcasing the unwavering efforts of the AFP composed of the JTUP; Tactical Operations Group 1, PAF; 1401st Community Defense Center, 14RCDG, RESCOM, PA; 122nd Naval Combat Support Squadron, 12NGR, NFR-NL; and Philippine Military Academy together with different uniformed agencies such as the Baguio City Police Office; BJMP-CAR; and BFP-CAR in maritime security and national defense. Other activities in the event are the distribution of AFP recruitment and WPS leaflets; WPS Photo Booth Display; and One-stop Shop Serbisyo Caravan of the different Government and Non-Government Agencies, which includes the DA-BFAR-CAR; DSWD-CAR; TESDA-CAR; DTI-CAR; and AFPSLAI-Baguio Branch, offering a range of public services and support to the advocacy.
The highlights of the event were the Face Painting Booths led by the Army and Navy Reservists engaging the youth and families in advocacy through creative expression and art, and the Donation Drive for the fisherfolks and coastal communities fostering solidarity and inclusive development.
Drawing from their rich history of resilience and self-determination, Cordillerans expressed solidarity with the nation’s appeal to assert its rightful claims, echoing the message that the defense of territorial integrity is a shared responsibility of all Filipinos- by blood, by heart, and by heritage.
The event further strengthened the AFP’s commitment to promoting nationalism, patriotism, and informed citizenship, as well as active participation in addressing national issues through peaceful and creative means. ###
