Manila: Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla called for unity among local government units (LGUs) for a unified demonstration of support for the West Philippine Sea and the Filipino communities whose lives depend on it.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla emphasized the importance of unity during the "Bayanihan para sa Kanlurang Dagat ng Pilipinas 2026" Summit at the Sison Auditorium. The event, which included participation from officials of Pangasinan as the host province, La Union, Batanes, Zambales, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Palawan, Bataan, and Oriental Mindoro, coincided with the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award in the South China Sea Arbitration.
Remulla urged Filipinos to demonstrate their resolve and fearlessness in asserting their rights over the West Philippine Sea. He also called for national and local leaders to unite despite political differences, emphasizing the importance of collective action in this matter.
The summit was part of the Department of the Interior and Local Government's (DILG) "Bayanihang Adhikain, Bayanihang Aksiyon para sa Kanlurang Dagat ng Pilipinas" initiative. This program collaborates with 10 provinces facing the West Philippine Sea to enhance local governance mechanisms for marine protection, sustainable fisheries, and coastal community resilience.
Assistant Director General Francis Jude Lauengco of the National Security Council's Partnerships and Engagements Office outlined the government's strategies in upholding the country's victory in the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration. These strategies include diplomatic, political, legal, informational, military, law enforcement, and socio-economic measures.
Additionally, the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has implemented programs like LAYAG-WPS and the Kadiwa ng Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda to support fisherfolk affected by tensions in the area with livelihood, fuel, and market access.
Edgar Sison, chairperson of the Lingayen Municipal Agricultural and Fisheries Council, expressed gratitude for the national government's efforts to support the West Philippine Sea. He emphasized the significance of unity among provinces and leaders in demonstrating seriousness in asserting the country's claims over the area.
