The event was organized in partnership with the National Youth Commission (NYC), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and TSU.
TARLAC – In an effort to equip the youth with crucial knowledge about the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and counter the spread of false information online, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Central Luzon organized the Kilos Kabataan Para sa West Philippine Sea at Tarlac State University (TSU). The event, which was held in partnership with the National Youth Commission (NYC), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and TSU, brought together students and experts to discuss the pressing issue of the WPS.
PIA Director-General Katherine Chloe De Castro opened the forum by stressing that it was more than just an educational symposium. She highlighted that it was an opportunity to deepen the understanding of the WPS issue and arm the youth with the skills to discern and combat misinformation.
“Recent events once again prove that the war against misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation is far from over. With the overwhelming spread of false information, many people become confused or misled. We cannot allow falsehoods to prevail; we must ensure that every Filipino hears and understands the truth,” De Castro stated.
PIA Regional Head William Beltran reinforced the agency’s commitment to working with other groups in raising awareness about the issue. He reminded attendees that the responsibility of protecting the WPS does not solely rest with the government, but with all Filipinos.
"While it’s challenging to form new partnerships, we are confident that the support of our existing partners will help make this advocacy a success," Beltran said.
PCG Spokesperson Commodore Jay Tristan Tarriela spoke passionately about the Philippines' claim to the WPS, urging Filipinos to believe in the country’s rightful ownership of the disputed waters. He emphasized the importance of educating the youth, who will be the nation’s future defenders.
“As Filipinos, we must remember that we have no reason to argue with any foreign entity. We must believe in our rightful claim—that the West Philippine Sea belongs to the Philippines and its people,” Tarriela stated. "Our duty today is to ensure that you are well-informed and understand what we are fighting for."
NYC Assistant Secretary Karl Josef Legazpi rallied the students to reflect on their role in defending the country, declaring that the actions of today would shape the Philippines of tomorrow.
“We are at a turning point in history. If we choose to act—if we fight for the West Philippine Sea, for our country, and for our people—then we prove ourselves worthy of our ancestors,” Legazpi declared.
PIA Assistant Regional Head Carlo Lorenzo Datu also reminded the youth of their responsibility in the fight against misinformation. He urged them to verify facts before sharing information.
“As communicators, we have a duty to examine and verify information before sharing it. Responsible information sharing starts with you. Remember, truth empowers. What we share shapes opinions, influences actions, and affects public sentiment,” Datu said.
TSU President Arnold Velasco expressed his gratitude to PIA for selecting the university as the event’s venue, acknowledging the importance of the initiative in deepening students' understanding of the issue.
“This event will surely help us understand and uphold our rights over our territorial waters. We deeply appreciate the PIA for selecting our university to enlighten the youth and our students on this pressing issue,” Velasco said.
With the discussions on the West Philippine Sea continuing to evolve, forums like Kilos Kabataan Para sa West Philippine Sea are vital in empowering the youth to critically assess information, engage in meaningful discussions, and actively participate in defending the nation’s sovereignty.
photo courtesy: Tarlac State Univesity (Public Affairs)
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