By: Sophia Pacheco
Photo Courtesy: Colegio de San Juan de Letran Facebook Page
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) hosted the West Philippine Sea (WSP) Youth Forum on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the St. Thomas Hall, in collaboration with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), National Youth Commission (NYC), and Kabataan sa Kartilya ng Katipunan (KKK).
The event brought together students, faculty, and administrators to raise awareness and encourage youth participation in defending the country's sovereignty.
Ms. Jimmyley E. Guzman, Senior Information Officer of the PIA, began the session by emphasizing the value of media and information literacy, demonstrating how to spot fake news by investigating the source, purpose, ownership, and timing of information.
She also emphasized the distinctions between misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation, advising the youth to remain vigilant, particularly during election periods.
“Always be mindful and be discerning on the decisions you make,” she stated.
Guzman ended her speech by urging the students to spread the truth and combat false information online.
NYC Area Head Mr. Armando Angeles Jr. explained why young people should get involved in defending the WPS.
“Mahalin natin ang bayan natin. Love is more than words. It’s a commitment, akala natin ang pag-ibig is only about emotions, but it’s a commitment. Saying ‘I love the Philippines’ isn’t enough—we must prove it by protecting what is ours.” he said.
He emphasized the necessity of developing fair and respectful ties with other countries, including China.
“It should be a two-way process, not just giving, but also defending and uplifting each other,” he added.
He concluded by ‘calling for the youth, and being the change,’ emphasizing the importance of youth in upcoming elections, stating that the leaders we choose must be capable of defending our territory.
Highlighting call for awareness and action on the WPS
The second session of the event focused on the importance of truth, awareness, and the youth's role in preserving the country's maritime rights.
Asst. Prof. Clarita Rivera, MPA, gave her remarks by emphasizing the necessity of combating disinformation and disseminating accurate information about the WPS.
“This affair is an initiative of the Philippine Coast Guard, West Philippine Sea Transparency Office. In a mission in which is to make authentic information to the youth…to combat misinformation and inform,” she stated.
Assoc. Prof. Eric N. Awi, PhD, also delivered a speech, encouraging the youth to be aware, engaged, responsible, and urging them to take action.
“To all of the youth in the room, you’re not only the fruit of the future, you are the power of the present… maging alon sa kaalaman, maging ilaw sa pag-asa, tumindig at lumaban,” he said.
Meanwhile, PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela, PhD, took the stage to speak on the Philippines' Transparency Strategy in the WPS.
He explained the distinction between the South China Sea and the WPS, emphasizing that the WPS specifically refers to the territory within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which extends 200 nautical miles from the country's shoreline.
He highlighted that the WPS is not contested territory, saying, 'It is ours in the first place.' Commodore Tarriela further advised the audience that the issue will continue to influence future generations.
“Our fight in the WPS is intergenerational. Ang isyu ng WPS ay ipapamana namin sa inyo lahat. Hindi ito matatapos—this will continue to linger to all of you,” he added.
He also tackled China’s aggression, the Philippine government’s response, and the significance of upholding international law.
He stated that eight out of ten Filipinos favor politicians who advocate for the country's rights in the WPS, demonstrating how crucial the topic has become in elections.
During the open forum, he mentioned the Philippines Maritime Zone Act, which contributes to PCG's efforts and strengthens international support.
The seminar concluded with a reminder to the youth to continue learning about the issue, stay informed, and get involved, especially when selecting leaders who will advocate for the country.