SUBIC, Zambales — The Atin Ito Coalition and hundreds of fisherfolk from Zambales launched a symbolic sea action on Sunday, July 5, to open the week-long commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Philippines’ landmark 2016 Arbitral Ruling on the West Philippine Sea.

Nearly 80 fishing boats carrying around 250 fisherfolk formed a giant Philippine flag and the words “WPS, ATIN ITO!” off the coast of Subic as part of the activity.

The event also renewed calls for the government to declare July 12 as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day.

The sea action was organized by the Atin Ito Coalition in partnership with the New Masinloc Fishermen Association, the Subic Commercial Fishers Association, and the Samahan ng Cabangaan-3 Fishermen’s Unity. Organizers said the activity aimed to commemorate the country’s 2016 arbitral victory while reaffirming the fisherfolk’s peaceful stand amid what they described as continuing harassment and aggression by China in their traditional fishing grounds.

Leonardo “Ka Nards” Cuaresma, president of the New Masinloc Fishermen Association, said the anniversary serves as a reminder that the struggle to protect the country’s maritime rights continues.

“Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang ika-sampung anibersaryo ng ating makasaysayang tagumpay, muli nating pinagtitibay ang ating paninindigan para sa mahal nating West Philippine Sea. Ang tagumpay sa arbitral ruling ay mahalaga, ngunit hindi pa tapos ang laban. Hanggang patuloy ang panghihimasok at agresyon ng Tsina sa ating karagatan, patuloy din tayong maninindigan at lalaban para sa ating karapatan,” Cuaresma said.

Atin Ito Co-Convenor Rafaela David urged President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to issue an Executive Order declaring July 12 as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day.

David said institutionalizing the observance would preserve what she described as one of the country’s most significant diplomatic victories while honoring fisherfolk and other frontliners who continue to defend the country’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 week-long activities leading up to the anniversary of the arbitral ruling on July 12.

The coalition said it will participate in a forum with diplomats, legal experts, government officials, and journalists on July 10, organized by the Stratbase Institute. On July 12, its members are set to join a West Philippine Sea parade in Puerto Princesa with the Palawan provincial government and the Municipality of Kalayaan. The coalition also plans to recognize local government units that have passed resolutions declaring July 12 as West Philippine Sea Victory Day. (Jun Dumaguing)

📸🎥Marti Dumaguing