AFP Advocates for West Philippine Sea Awareness Through ComPlan MULAT at TRIB-Youth 2024

Quezon City, December 18, 2024 – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) took center stage at the TRIB-Youth to West Philippine Sea 2024 event, held at the Quezon City University Auditorium in Novaliches. COL JO-AR A. HERRERA PA, MNSA, presented ComPlan MULAT, the AFP’s primary advocacy initiative on the West Philippine Sea, engaging over 500 students in an enlightening discussion on national sovereignty and youth involvement.

The event commenced with a vibrant showcase of performances, including the Presentation of Colors by the QCU ROTC cadets, cultural performances by the Indayaw Dance Group, and a stage play by Tanghalang Nasyunal from the National University. A series of insightful lectures followed, featuring speakers from the Supreme Student Council Society of the Philippines (SSCSP), the National Youth Commission (NYC), and the Quezon City Youth Development Council. The highlight of the evening was a compelling presentation led by AFP Spokesperson COL Francel Margareth Padilla PA, alongside the Media and Civil Affairs Group, at 1800H.

COL HERRERA’s presentation commenced with a disclaimer video, setting the stage for a deeper discussion on the complexities of the West Philippine Sea issue. The succeeding audiovisual presentation, Alamin, provided essential background information, detailing the legal, territorial, and security foundations that uphold the Philippines' claim over the contested waters.

Building on this foundation, the lecture transitioned into the Ipaglaban segment, urging students to take an active role in the discourse. COL HERRERA emphasized that advocacy begins in the classroom, where meaningful discussions foster awareness and informed perspectives. He further encouraged attendees to embrace the Suportahan principle—sharing knowledge and insights from the campaign with their families, peers, and communities. By spreading accurate information, the youth can help strengthen the Philippine narrative and contribute to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

In his closing remarks, COL HERRERA underscored the vital role of young Filipinos in shaping the country’s future. He highlighted the power of social media as a tool for advocacy, enabling rapid dissemination of information and fostering an environment favorable to national interests. By engaging in both online and offline discourse with a clear, unified message, the youth can drive impactful change and reinforce the Philippines' stance on the West Philippine Sea.

The TRIB-Youth to West Philippine Sea 2024 event served as a powerful platform to educate and empower the next generation, ensuring that the nation’s sovereignty remains protected through informed and proactive citizenship.