HINUNANGAN, Southern Leyte — Despite being located approximately 880 kilometers from the West Philippine Sea (WPS), on the opposite side of the archipelago, the town of Hinunangan is taking a strong stand in support of government’s efforts to protect the country’s sovereign rights and territorial integrity over the marine area.
Hinunangan Mayor Reynaldo Fernandez said, “There’s no pride like defending our own.”
“When other nations are getting what is ours, why can’t we provide support needed by those who are defending these territories for us,” Fernandez said.
The town’s Municipal Council passed Resolution No. 736 in September 2024 and it was signed in October. It highlights the municipality’s commitment to upholding national sovereignty and supporting the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ role in securing the country’s maritime territories.
Hinunangan Vice Mayor Marian D. Pelin said their support comes from an understanding of the plight of local fisherfolk whose livelihoods are imperiled by the continuing international territorial dispute.
“We carry the same sentiments for the fishers whose livelihoods are being affected there. Almost half of our town rely on our seas and maritime resources too. If we can protect our fisherfolk here, we are extending the same support to the people and the government who are protecting our own people and our resources in the West Philippine Sea,” Pelin said.
Hinunangan is an agricultural and commercial hub facing the Pacific Ocean. Fourteen of its 40 villages lie along the coast and rely on the sea for food, livelihoods, and tourism.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines has acknowledged and appreciated the local government’s support, expressed through the resolution.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government also has called on local governments to support efforts to protect the WPS, stressing the significance of government plans to ensure sustainable development and the protection of marine resources. (ACR/PIA Leyte)
