Prominent Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao has called on those he labels as 'Filipino traitors' to visit Pagasa Island, urging them to witness firsthand the challenges posed by the ongoing maritime dispute with China.
During his visit to the island on September 25, 2026, Pacquiao highlighted the significance of solidarity among Filipinos in asserting the country’s rights in the West Philippine Sea.
Pacquiao's Call for Unity
What I can say to my fellow citizens is we should unite.
Manny Pacquiao, NAPC Chair
As the chair of the National Anti-Poverty Commission, he expressed his commitment to honor the troops stationed in the area and reaffirmed the Philippines' sovereignty over the territory.
- Pacquiao donated P500,000 to the local government of Kalayaan during his visit.
- He described the presence of Chinese vessels near the island as an 'insult' and a form of intimidation.
Pacquiao's remarks come at a time of heightened scrutiny regarding the Philippines' territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea, a region that has seen increasing tensions due to China's assertive actions.
He encouraged those critical of the government to experience life on Pagasa Island, emphasizing that the Filipino people must not surrender their claims to their own territory.
This is ours, and it's not good that our own house is being taken from us.
Manny Pacquiao
Pacquiao's visit aligns with Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the Philippines’ maritime rights and challenges.
Historically, Pagasa Island has been at the center of disputes, with various attempts at asserting Philippine sovereignty. Pacquiao's engagement reflects a broader call for national unity in the face of external pressures.