LABRADOR, Pangasinan – This western Pangasinan town has declared July 12 every year as “West Philippine Sea Victory Day” to commemorate the landmark 2016 Arbitral Award and honor the country’s diplomatic victory.
Labrador Mayor Noel Uson signed Executive Order No. 41 on Tuesday, citing the significance of July 12, 2016, when the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague issued a historic and legally binding ruling that invalidated expansive maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea.
The ruling also affirmed the Philippines’ sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
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“The Municipality of Labrador, as a coastal community deeply connected to the country’s maritime security and resources, recognizes the monumental significance of this legal victory in safeguarding our national patrimony, territorial integrity, and the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen,” Uson said.
He said protecting and preserving the country’s sovereign rights is a continuing, intergenerational duty and civic responsibility that should be instilled from an early age. He encouraged the Department of Education (DepEd) to lead schools in organizing meaningful commemorative activities on or around July 12.
“These initiatives aim to instill deep patriotism, cultivate love of country, and foster respect for our national heroes and the modern defenders of our seas,” Uson said.
The executive order also seeks to educate future generations by integrating the history, legal basis, and socio-economic significance of the West Philippine Sea into classroom discussions and school activities. It also aims to encourage the youth to peacefully, confidently, and knowledgeably uphold the country’s sovereign rights and territorial integrity.
READ: After 2016 arbitral award, West Philippine Sea shifted from fish to force
Under the order, the Labrador local government, through its tourism, culture, and youth development offices, shall provide the Department of Education with the necessary logistical and promotional support for the annual commemorative activities./coa
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