On July 5, 2026, around 250 fisherfolk from Subic, Zambales, will participate in a symbolic sea action to mark the 10th anniversary of the Philippines' landmark 2016 arbitral ruling regarding the West Philippine Sea.
A Unified Call for Sovereignty
Organized by the Atin Ito Coalition in collaboration with local fishing groups, the event will commence at 6 a.m. at the Philippine Coast Guard station in Barangay Cawag.
This action is essential for asserting our rights and highlighting the ongoing struggles we face,
Rafaela David, Co-convenor
Participants will sail approximately 80 small fishing boats into Subic Bay, where they plan to form a human Philippine flag and display a message reading 'WPS, ATIN ITO!' at around 8 a.m.
Following the sea action, a program will take place at 9 a.m., featuring speeches from local leaders such as Leonardo Cuaresma, Fausto Alpay, and Rosielyn Regalado.
The protest coincides with the July 12 anniversary of the ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which invalidated China's expansive claims in the South China Sea and affirmed the Philippines' maritime rights.
Despite this international victory, many Filipino fishermen continue to face significant challenges. Reports of harassment from Chinese Coast Guard vessels persist, limiting their access to traditional fishing grounds and threatening their livelihoods.
The event serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for protection of the rights of local fisherfolk and the importance of safeguarding the Philippines' sovereign maritime interests.