MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has assured safe passage for the fourth civilian mission of the “Atin Ito” Coalition to Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea, saying it will provide maritime monitoring and coordination support.
AFP WPS spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad said the military remains dedicated to safeguarding national sovereignty and ensuring the safety of Filipinos within Philippine territory.
While the mission is civilian-led, Trinidad said the AFP will support the operation through maritime domain awareness to help ensure a secure journey.
He also commended the coalition’s initiative, describing it as a strong expression of bayanihan and the resolve of Filipinos to assert their rights in the West Philippine Sea. He stressed that such activities reinforce the country’s claim that the WPS is part of its territory and called for a rules-based system that allows citizens to safely live and work in the area.
The “Atin Ito” Coalition’s vessel, M/V Felix Oca, left Pier 15 at the South Harbor early Thursday morning for the April 30 to May 5 mission.
The program includes delivery of food and fuel supplies, medical outreach activities, and a community concert for island residents.
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