Zambales fisherfolk associated with Atin Ito marked the 8th anniversary of the Philippines’ arbitral ruling victory over China in the West Philippine Sea by advocating for a new national observance, urging the Philippine government to declare July 12 of every year as “West Philippine Sea Day,” as they gather on Friday in a small coastal community in San Antonio, Zambales.
According to an Atin Ito statement, the arbitral ruling upheld in 2016, affirmed the Philippines’ sovereign rights in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) against competing claims in the region. Atin Ito emphasized the importance of commemorating this landmark decision as a testament to national sovereignty and maritime rights.
“Designating July 12 as ‘West Philippine Sea Day’ will serve as a yearly reminder of our victory in safeguarding our territorial integrity and promoting awareness about the need to defend our sovereignty, economic rights and territorial integrity in the area,” stated Akbayan President Rafaela David, Atin Ito co-convenor.
📸 Atin Ito
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