Manila, Philippines–ANGKIN PH, a non-partisan social movement, recently hosted an immersive public exhibit at Level 4 of Trinoma, paying tribute to the West Philippine Sea. Held July 27-28, the eye-opening display captivated visitors by highlighting the West Philippine Sea’s crucial role in shaping our national identity and the importance of protecting our natural resources.
“‘Tunay na Yaman’ is more than just an exhibit; it is a call to action. By honoring the West Philippine Sea through this artistic and educational journey, we aim to inspire a collective effort to protect and cherish this true treasure. We hope the exhibit will leave visitors with a profound sense of pride in their natural heritage and a renewed commitment to preserving the West Philippine Sea for future generations,” said Frankie Torres, ANGKIN representative.
Established in November 2023, ANGKIN collaborated with its public partner, the Philippine Navy Reserve and local advocacy groups to promote a collective and peaceful effort to protect the West Philippine Sea. This initiative raises awareness for vulnerable coastal areas and advocates for energy and resource autonomy while fostering discussions on the Philippines’ benefits from the sea.
As part of the commemoration, the event dives deeply into the West Philippine Sea’s potential as a source of energy independence, its role in sustaining marine biodiversity, and its impact on the livelihoods of countless Filipino fishermen and their families. The photos, videos, and other artworks presented gave the audience a closer look into the West Philippine Sea’s economic and ecological importance, and the challenges faced by local communities.
One of ANGKIN’s showstopper displays is the short documentary “Presyo, Pamasahe, Pamumuhay,” which sheds light on the struggles of jeepney drivers, illustrating how ongoing conflicts in the West Philippine Sea impact fuel prices and other essential expenses. With more than 6.1 million views in social media, this documentary has inspired many Filipinos to voice our sovereignty and protect our resources. Watch it on ANGKIN’s Facebook page.
Aside from the documentary, COMMANDER LADY CHATTERLY ALVARO-SUMBELING, PHILIPPINE NAVY (PN) highlights ANGKIN’s role in raising awareness about the West Philippine Sea. “We need these kinds of organizations na magsalita or mag spread ng awareness about our West Philippine Sea,” she said.
“We want as much organizations such as Angkin to spread awareness, to help the Filipino people be more aware kung ano po ang nangyayari. At the same time, makapag provide po tayo ng support para sa ating mga authorities na nandoroon,” Commander Alvaro-Sumbeling, PN added.
The Philippine Navy has released a song titled “WPS Akin Ka” performed by COMMANDER LADY CHATTERLY ALVARO-SUMBELING, PN. The song was released on YouTube and was performed at the event. COMMANDER ALVARO-SUMBELING PN, shared her creative process, revealing how tapping into her most profound emotions fueled her songwriting.
The public also participated in engaging activities, including an educational gallery, a photo booth, a pledge wall, and informative segments featuring talks on the importance of the West Philippine Sea. Audiences witnessed presentations that educated them about the West Philippine Sea’s pivotal role in our ecosystem, national sovereignty, resource independence, and economic growth. The educational display gave a deeper understanding of the urgent need to protect this natural treasure from various threats.
In addition to participating in events like ASEAN Clean Energy Week and RunRio’s “Takbo Para sa WPS” fun run, ANGKIN has also made a tangible impact through outreach efforts. With support from the local government unit in Masbate, ANGKIN provided essential relief goods to 100 fishermen and their families, demonstrating its commitment to supporting communities while promoting sovereignty over Philippine natural resources.
Angkin PH thanks the public who joined the captivating visual gallery event dedicated to the West Philippine Sea. To know more and get fresh updates about the West Philippine Sea, please visit Angkin.org.
Skyrocket Studios Inc., Asia’s marketing technology agency, is the creative force behind Angkin.org.
