A coalition advocating for the Philippines’ sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) has announced plans for another civilian-led mission to Panatag Shoal, also known as Bajo de Masinloc, next week. Atin Ito will be traveling to Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal from May 14 to 17 to deliver provisions to Filipino fishers in the area.
Rafaela David, Akbayan Party president and Atin Ito co-convenor, stated that the mission aims to showcase an “active citizenship model” and is not intended as a provocation or conflict with Chinese vessels in the area. The group’s approach is focused on reclaiming what belongs to the Philippines based on international law and diplomatic principles.
During the upcoming mission, markers or buoys with the message “WPS, Atin Ito!” (WPS is ours!) will be deployed. This initiative follows a previous mission to Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, which was cut short due to being shadowed by Chinese vessels.
Recent tensions in the region included an incident where China Coast Guard water cannoned and rammed vessels of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources on their way to assist Filipino fishers at Panatag Shoal. China claims a significant portion of the South China Sea, disregarding claims from other countries, including the Philippines, and an international court ruling rejecting its assertions.
