First batch of ‘WPS Christmas Convoy Volunteers’ depart from Manila TO El Nido

In a profound display of solidarity and paxtriotism, over 40 volunteers, comprising youth and student leaders, along with fisherfolk representatives, embarked on a “Christmas Convoy Civilian Supply Mission” to the West Philippine Sea (WPS) from Manila on Friday morning.

Loaded with essential donations and supplies, the group set sail for El Nido, Palawan, aboard a 150-capacity civilian marine vessel.

Upon arrival in El Nido, the volunteers will join forces with a larger contingent of 100 fisherfolk, forming part of a 40-boat convoy set to navigate the general vicinity of Ayungin Shoal, Patag, and Lawak islands from December 10-12 to deliver essential supplies to fisherfolk communities and frontliners in the area.

This initiative is spearheaded by ATIN ITO, a campaign network dedicated to advancing the cause of fisherfolk and frontliners in the West Philippine Sea through education and advocacy.

Akbayan Party President Rafaela David, a convenor of ATIN ITO, expressed pride in their volunteers, referring to them as “West Philippine ambassadors” symbolizing the Filipino spirit of patriotism, solidarity, and unity in the face of overwhelming challenges. “This marks the commencement of a meaningful journey to support fisherfolk communities and frontliners in the West Philippine Sea.”

“As we sail forth, let our collective commitment echo in the waves: the spirit of Christmas is not confined to festivities but resonates in our shared duty to improve the living and working conditions of our fisherfolks and frontliners in the West Philippine Sea. It embodies our nation’s resilience and our peaceful but determined defense of our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Our voyage is a testament to the enduring strength of Filipino unity, even in the face of foreign aggression and intrusion within our beloved West Philippine Sea,” David stated.

ATIN ITO comprises organizations such as the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM), Pambansang Kilusan ng mga Samahang Magsasaka (PAKISAMA), Center for Agrarian Reform for Empowerment and Transformation (CARET), Pambansang Katipunan ng mga Samahan sa Kanayunan (PKSK), Team Manila Lifestyle, Akbayan Youth, and the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP).