AFP cascades Communication Plan ‘MULAT’ to Strengthen National Awareness on the West Philippine Sea

February 5, 2025 – Camp General Guillermo Nakar, Lucena City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, J7, successfully conducted the cascading of its Communication Plan ‘MULAT’ at Camp General Guillermo Nakar, Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM), Lucena City.

According to Colonel JO-AR HERRERA PA, the communication campaign's leader, "The goal of the cascading is to equip our communicators in planning, organizing, facilitating, and engaging relevant key stakeholders in their respective jurisdictions." The event was attended by 77 SOLCOM personnel comprising representatives from HSOLCOM, JTFs Katagalugan and Bicolandia, TOWSOL/NFSL, RCDGs, and CDCs.

Brig. General ALDWINE ALMASE PA, Deputy Commander, SOLCOM, emphasized the importance of the Communication "Mulat" in fostering an understanding and awareness of the issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea. In his remarks, “I believe in this initiative, we aim to create informed and engaged citizens who are aware of our maritime rights and the significance of the WPS in our national sovereignty."  

Lt. Col. LEO M MIRADOR PA, presented the AFP Communication Plan ‘MULAT,’ detailing its strategic importance in setting the proper perspective on the Philippines’ rightful claim over the disputed waters. Following this, Mr. Ragpa CivHR, Researcher, OJ7, introduced the instructional package and media guidelines, ensuring consistency in messaging across all concerned AFP units.

The cascading event included a series of presentations and discussions aimed at enhancing the participants' knowledge of the communication strategies and objectives of the ‘MULAT’ plan. It also encouraged active participation and feedback from the attendees, ensuring that the message resonates throughout the various units of the AFP.

As part of the campaign, the AFP seeks to deploy various communication tools and platforms to disseminate information effectively. The focus will be on educating the public about the historical and legal bases of the Philippines' claims over the West Philippine Sea, as well as the ongoing efforts to protect its maritime territory.

Colonel Herrera concluded the event by urging the participants to take the lessons learned back to their respective units and engage with their communities. “Your role in this campaign is crucial. We need to work together to ensure that the message of our commitment to defending our maritime rights is loud and clear,” he said.

The AFP’s ‘MULAT’ communication plan supports a broader strategy to strengthen national unity and raise awareness about critical national issues, especially concerning territorial integrity and sovereignty. The successful execution of this cascading event marks a significant step in the AFP's ongoing efforts to promote informed citizenship and national pride among Filipinos.