Coast Guard Extends Invitation to Lawmakers for West Philippine Sea Flight
In a move to bolster national awareness and support for the West Philippine Sea, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela has extended an invitation to key lawmakers to join a maritime domain awareness (MDA) flight. The invitees include Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Rep. Paolo Henry Marcoleta, the son of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, with the mission set to head to the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG).
Bonding and Advocacy in the KIG
According to Tarriela, if the legislators agree to participate, the trip will serve as both a bonding experience and an opportunity to immerse themselves in the waters around Pag-asa Island. He emphasized that the primary goal of this invitation is to provide the lawmakers with a firsthand view of the Filipino community residing on Pag-asa Island. This includes families and youth who call the island home, whom Tarriela stressed deserve the nation's unwavering defense and support.
Background and Previous Invitations
This latest invitation follows an earlier one extended to Senator Rodante Marcoleta, which came in the wake of his controversial statement suggesting that the Philippines should "surrender the KIG." Tarriela's persistent efforts highlight the PCG's commitment to engaging political figures in the realities of the West Philippine Sea.
Firm Stance on Diplomatic Issues
In related developments, Tarriela has refused to apologize for his use of a caricature depicting Chinese President Xi Jinping. He firmly asserted that China has yet to issue any apologies for its alleged violations of Philippine rights, harassment of Filipino fishermen, and bullying tactics against the Philippine Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea. This stance underscores ongoing tensions in the region.
Senate Support and Public Awareness
Tarriela expressed gratitude towards Senators Risa Hontiveros, Kiko Pangilinan, Senate President Vicente Sotto III, and Panfilo Lacson for their steadfast positions. He noted that a resolution passed by the Senate serves as proof of the institution's patriotic spirit. These remarks were made during Tarriela's attendance at the launch of the WPS Mural Festival, an event designed to enhance public awareness about the West Philippine Sea through artistic expression.
The festival aims to foster a deeper understanding of the geopolitical significance of the area, aligning with Tarriela's broader advocacy for national sovereignty and community resilience in the face of external pressures.
