Atin Ito Pushes West Philippine Sea Victory Day

The Atin Ito Coalition and hundreds of fisherfolk from Zambales launched a symbolic sea action on Sunday, July 5, to kick off the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Philippines’ landmark 2016 arbitral ruling, forming the colors of the Philippine flag and the words “WPS, ATIN ITO!” using nearly 80 fishing boats.

Joined by around 250 fisherfolk, the activity also renewed calls for the government to declare July 12 as “National West Philippine Sea Victory Day.”

Organized in partnership with the New Masinloc Fishermen Association (NMFA), the Subic Commercial Fishers Association, and the Samahan ng Cabangaan-3 Fishermen’s Unity, the sea action celebrated the country’s historic 2016 arbitral ruling victory while reaffirming their peaceful, but resolute stand against the continuing harassment and aggression of China in their traditional fishing grounds.

“As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of our historic victory, we reaffirm our steadfast commitment to our beloved West Philippine Sea. The victory in the arbitral ruling is significant, but the fight is far from over. For as long as China’s encroachment and aggression in our waters persist, we will continue to stand firm and fight for our rights,” Leonardo Cuaresma, NMFA president, said.

Rafaela David, Atin Ito co-convenor and president of Akbayan, called on President Marcos to issue an executive order declaring July 12 of every year as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day, saying the country must institutionalize the commemoration of one of its greatest diplomatic victories while honoring the fisherfolk and frontliners who continue to defend the nation’s maritime rights.

“July 12 is more than a date in our history, it is a reminder that truth, international law and the courage of the Filipino people prevailed. Declaring it as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day will help preserve this victory in our national memory, strengthen public awareness and education, and ensure that future generations are equipped to reject disinformation and defend what is rightfully ours,” David said.

The sea action marked the opening of Atin Ito’s weeklong commemoration of the ruling’s 10th anniversary, culminating on July 12.

On July 10, Atin Ito will join diplomats, legal luminaries, government leaders and journalists in a forum organized by the Stratbase Institute. On July 12, Atin Ito leaders will participate in a WPS parade in Puerto Princesa alongside the provincial government of Palawan and the people of the Municipality of Kalayaan.

Throughout the week, the coalition will also recognize local government units that have passed resolutions declaring July 12 as West Philippine Sea Victory Day.

Existential concern

Marcos expressed hope on Sunday the next leader of the country would be consistent in defending its territorial waters.

“It’s a very important issue for the Philippines, if you’re asking me if I’m worried that the policy of the Philippines will change after I leave office. Of course, I am. Because it’s almost an existential issue for us,” the President said during a press conference after concluding his four-day official visit to Canada.

“There are no issues before any president that are greater than that. Some are equally important, but that is as important as anything else that we are having to deal with,” he said.

Marcos said it is an existential issue for the government, although ordinary Filipinos may not consider it that way.

“Maybe not existential for ordinary Filipinos, but for the state of the Philippine Republic. So, we really have to be consistent in that,” he said.

Marcos hits China’s sanctions versus Teodoro

For the first time, Marcos commented on Beijing’s decision to impose sanctions against Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., saying it was “very unhelpful” and does not support efforts of the two countries to have “many lines of communications” to address their maritime dispute.

“The declaration of Beijing, (against) Secretary Teodoro, as persona non grata… It’s very unhelpful, in my view,” he said.

Marcos said the sanctions against Teodoro and his family achieve very little.

With regard to Philippine-US relations, Marcos said it “has not changed status since I came into office,” and it keeps growing.