Antique: Fisherfolk in Antique are assured of protection as they go fishing in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for the WPS, Commodore Jay Tarriela, emphasized during a press conference that despite limited resources, efforts are being made to safeguard the traditional fishing grounds of Antique±o fisherfolk. Tarriela highlighted recent joint operations with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, which provided security to over 26 fishermen at the Bajo de Masinloc, ensuring their continued access to fishing areas.

The assurance comes in response to a resolution passed by the Provincial Board in 2024, which sought assistance for Antique fisherfolk who feared venturing deeper into the WPS. The board’s concern centered around the safety and livelihood of these fishermen, who faced threats to their lives while fishing in disputed waters.

Commodore Tarriela, along with National Youth Commission Commissioner-at-Large Karl Josef Legazpi and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Director General Katherine Chloe De Castro, participated in a symposium aimed at increasing student awareness about the importance of protecting the Philippines’ sovereignty rights over the WPS. Tarriela stressed the significance of educating the youth about the country’s sovereign rights to ensure future generations continue the struggle for territorial integrity.

Legazpi expressed optimism that the idealism of the students could bolster the ongoing campaign to assert the Philippines’ rights in the WPS, highlighting the crucial role of youth engagement in addressing the long-term challenges faced by the nation.