DAPITAN CITY (PIA) – Commodore Jay Tarriela, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the  West Philippine Sea, called on Filipinos to speak up, affirming the nation’s sovereignty and economic rights to the West Philippine Sea.

“Ang kalayaan na ini-enjoy natin ngayon, sana pangalagaan at ipaglaban natin,” Tarriela said.

(The freedom that we are currently enjoying, let us take care of it and fight for it.)

According to Tarriela, the Philippines has remained calm, tolerant, and professional amid the aggression of the Chinese.

He said that despite having been subjected to water cannon and military-grade laser fire, Filipino troops chose to remain calm. 

“It's important to emphasize diplomacy, open communication, and address the issue peacefully,” Tarriela said.

Tarriela reminds everyone to consider the impact of their actions on the next generation and encourages the Filipino people to speak out rather than remain silent.

“There's a fear that remaining silent means forgetting the sacrifices of Filipino heroes, including Rizal. The analogy draws attention to the collective responsibility to remember and honor those who fought for our freedom,” Tarriela said.

The National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) has collaborated with the Philippine Information Agency to boost awareness of the government's efforts to assert its rights inthe West Philippine Sea.

PIA Director-General Jose A. Torres Jr. emphasized the importance of unity among Filipinos in protecting the Philippines and its wealth, which is deeply significant for the country.

"Kailangan natin magkaisa at ipaglaban ang ating teritoryo. Kailangan natin protektahan at ipagtanggol ang yaman nito,” he said. 

(We must come together and stand up for our territory. It is crucial that we safeguard and defend its resources.) (EDT/CCP/EMAM/PIA9)