Youth group urges Marcos to declare July 12 as WPS Nat’l Day

THE National Youth Movement for the West Philippine Sea (NYMWPS) on Wednesday asked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to declare July 12 as West Philippine Sea National Day.

NYMWPS, a non-partisan and transglobal organization, said in a press release, that it has sent a letter to the president requesting him to declare July 12 as WPS National Day as a symbol of national pride and Philippines’ sovereignty.

The group was referring to the July 12, 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling, affirming the country’s territorial claims over the WPS.

This landmark ruling not only affirmed our country’s territorial claims but also served as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Filipino people in defending our sovereignty, the group said.

“In light of this monumental event, we are respectfully requesting your esteemed office to declare July 12 as the “West Philippine Sea National Day” and designate it as a national holiday,” the statement said.

“Commemorating this day annually will not only honor our victory but also serve to remind every Filipino of the importance of our territorial integrity and the rich natural resources within our maritime boundaries”, says Dr. Celia Lamkin, founder and global chairperson of the NYMWPS.

“It will educate our citizens about the significance of this ruling and encourage the continuous defense of our territorial and sovereign rights. Moreover, incorporating this important date into our national calendar will solidify our commitment to safeguarding our sovereignty for future generations.”