BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Benjamin Magalong through an approved resolution declared July 12 of each year as West Philippine Sea (WPS) Awareness Day in the city in support of expanding public awareness of the country’s rights to the sea.
The 2016 Arbitral Award is a landmark decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, invalidating China’s broad nine-dash line, affirming the Philippines’ sovereign rights within its 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone, and declaring China’s island-building and harassment of ships illegal.
By virtue of Resolution No. 546, series of 2026 approved by the City Councils and immediately signed by Magalong, Baguio City reaffirms its support for the WPS and recognizes the commemoration of the anniversary of the July 12, 2016 Arbitral Award.
According to Magalong, as we commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award, the Baguio City Government joins every Filipino in reminding them of the importance of our rights in the West Philippine Sea.
“We stand firm that love for the country begins with having the right knowledge and concern. Even if we do not share the same views, we can unite in respecting our history, our rights, and the things that are important to the Philippines.”
He added that this serves as a reminder that being a responsible citizen begins with being aware and concerned for the country. “When we value our country together, we will be able to more firmly pass on to the next generation a Philippines with dignity, unity, and hope.”
He said that the commemoration will feature informational, educational, and civic activities such as forums, discussions in schools and communities, and the dissemination of materials on the issue. It will not be considered a special working or non-working holiday.
Magalong also called for “this day in commemoration of the 2016 Arbitral Award, let the Filipino people participate in the Nationwide Resonance, wherever you are, honk your car horn 10 times in solidarity. At Sea: Ships, vessels, and local boats will sound their horns simultaneously in ports and harbors nationwide. And in Communities: Church bells will ring 10 times as a prayerful and solemn reminder of our shared determination.” By Zaldy Comanda
