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Philippine Coast Guard Official Urges Unity Amidst West Philippine Sea Incident
Photo credit: CG Commodore Jay Tarriela
In the wake of a recent incident at the Ayungin Shoal, the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea (WPS), CG Commodore Jay Tarriela, has issued a fervent call for unity among fellow Filipinos.

On August 5, 2023, China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels engaged in perilous maneuvers and wielded water cannons against PCG vessels that were safeguarding indigenous boats chartered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

CG Commodore Tarriela emphatically stressed the significance of solidarity during these trying times. "Given the unfolding events in the West Philippine Sea, it is of utmost importance to exhibit unwavering loyalty to our country," he asserted. However, he also underscored the importance of upholding freedom of speech, a fundamental right enshrined in the constitution. He cautioned against exploiting this freedom to legitimize unpatriotic actions.

"In the face of current challenges, we must present a united front to shield our nation's interests and actively pursue a peaceful resolution to the ongoing issues," CG Commodore Tarriela remarked.

He concluded his statement with a resounding affirmation of national ownership over the West Philippine Sea's resources, stating, "Dahil sa West Philippine Sea, ang yaman nito ay para sa Pilipino!" (In the West Philippine Sea, its wealth belongs to the Filipino people!)

CG Commodore Jay Tarriela also took to social media platform X to further emphasize his stance. He made it unequivocally clear that anyone, irrespective of their position in the government or private sector, should be deemed unpatriotic and a betrayer of the Philippines if they endorse or excuse China's aggressive behavior. He emphasized that loyalty to the country should transcend political affiliations.

He stressed that while freedom of speech is a constitutional right, it must not be manipulated to serve as a conduit for unpatriotic actions or as a mouthpiece for China's interests. In this critical juncture, he urged all Filipinos to collectively denounce China's transgressions in the West Philippine Sea. He reiterated the call for unity in safeguarding national interests and pursuing peaceful resolutions to the challenges faced.

The incident at the Ayungin Shoal has ignited a passionate wave of solidarity and patriotism among Filipinos, as they rally behind the Philippines' claims and resources in the West Philippine Sea.
Aug 10, 2023
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