Quezon City- On December 18, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted the AFP’s TRIB-YOUTH 2024 - with the theme, “Our Seas, Our Rights and Our Future” which highlighted the solidarity of the youth with actions upholding the protection of the West Philippine Sea (WPS). It showcased the youths’ abilities in various forms of art, music, and performance while simultaneously promoting awareness on WPS. Tanggol Kalikasan under Restore WPS Project collaborated with the AFP in the conduct of the said activity.
One of the standout components of TRIB-YOUTH for WPS 2024 is the WPS Talk Show, a powerful dialogue featuring some of the country’s foremost legal and environmental experts on maritime and territorial issues by Justice Antonio Carpio, former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, whose strong stance on the Philippines’ rights in the WPS has earned him national recognition and Dr. Ferdinand Siringan, a prominent marine scientist and oceanography expert, who has conducted in-depth studies on the ecological importance of the WPS, shedding light on the long-term impacts of environmental degradation and territorial conflicts on the marine ecosystem.
Through the Restore WPS initiative, the AFP played a pivotal role in engaging young leaders in a deeper understanding of national defense, the importance of military presence in the region, and the value of unity among Filipinos in defending their patrimony. This partnership with the AFP also highlights the sacrifice and bravery of the military personnel who serve in the West Philippine Sea, providing a platform for the youth to express their support and appreciation for these courageous men and women.