The Manila Times
THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday lauded the “Atin Ito” Coalition for its civilian supply mission to Pag-asa Island. “The successful navigation to our features, culminating in the planting of the Philippine flag on Sandy Cay, is a profound testament to the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people. This is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a powerful assertion of our sovereign rights and a demonstration of active citizenship in the face of external challenges,” Navy Reservist retired Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, AFP spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, said in a statement. The civilian mission “amplifies the voice of our fisherfolk and local communities” and reinforces the truth that the disputed waters is not just a strategic maritime area but an integral part of the country’s national heritage,” Trinidad said. The group made its fourth voyage to Pag-asa Island from April 30 to May 5. Atin Ito, a civilian-led coalition asserting Philippine sovereignty and conducting supply missions to the WPS, made a series of Facebook posts detailing how they were shadowed by Chinese maritime forces all throughout their trip. It posted real-time videos of Chinese maritime forces shadowing them and claimed that drone operations by their media contingent, as well as volunteers, were being jammed by the Chinese.
Go to News Site