The Atin Ito Coalition announced the successful completion of its fourth civilian mission in the West Philippine Sea on Monday. The mission, which saw the group escorted by the Philippine Coast Guard, aimed to assert Filipino territorial rights amid the presence of Chinese vessels.
Rafaela 'Paeng' David, the coalition's leader, reported that two Chinese Coast Guard ships were shadowing their vessel, *MV Kapital Felix Oca*, during their return to Manila. David noted that the Chinese vessels began following them as early as 8 PM the previous night.
It is clear to us that if we are mission accomplished, China’s mission failed. They are the ones who didn’t win by scaring us no matter how many times they shoved a coast guard vessel at us.
Rafaela 'Paeng' David
David emphasized the significance of Pag-asa Island, declaring it an essential part of Philippine territory. She condemned China's actions in the area, asserting that they raise tensions and disturb peace among neighboring countries.
Before the mission, a Chinese naval frigate maneuvered unusually close to the coalition's support vessel, *ML Chowee*, coming within 1,000 yards of it and two nautical miles from Pag-asa Island.
The Atin Ito Coalition aims to bring attention to the West Philippine Sea during the upcoming 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu City. David expressed the need for regional cooperation to address China's assertive behavior.
Akbayan party-list Representative Dadah Ismula, who participated in the mission, plans to raise the issue in Congress, highlighting the importance of prioritizing the West Philippine Sea within ASEAN discussions.