MANILA, Philippines – The National Youth Movement for West Philippine Sea (NYMWPS) has formally requested public disclosure of the recent Philippines-China deal regarding resupply missions at BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal, Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) in the West Philippine Sea.
NYMWPS, a non-profit organization comprising Filipino youth, civic leaders, and professionals advocating for Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, addressed letters dated July 29, 2024, to DFA Secretary Enrique A. Manalo, DFA Undersecretary Maria Theresa Lazaro, and Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.
Tara Jehana Tamano, NYMWPS member, highlighted concerns about the agreement’s secrecy and its implications on national sovereignty and safety. The group emphasized the need for clarity on provisions affecting the disclosure of resupply mission schedules and adherence to the 2016 Arbitral Award.
The group also questioned the deal’s impact on territorial claims and rights following recent incidents involving Chinese Coast Guard harassment in the West Philippine Sea. They underscored the importance of public awareness and scrutiny regarding such agreements affecting national interest and security.
In a unified statement, NYMWPS urged the Philippine government to uphold transparency and protect Filipino fishermen’s rights in the West Philippine Sea. They stressed the significance of consulting indigenous communities, such as the Cuyonon, whose ancestral domains are impacted by these decisions.
The NYMWPS letter reflects broader concerns about regional stability and Philippine sovereignty amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. They reiterated the call for transparency and adherence to national laws and international agreements to safeguard Philippine interests.
For further clarity and transparency, NYMWPS urged the government to disclose details of the provisional agreement with China promptly, ensuring public scrutiny and protection of national interests.
“We stand united in urging the government to prioritize transparency and uphold our sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea,” concluded the NYMWPS statement. | Press Release
