The West Philippine Sea: Our Home, Our Duty

It is part of our territory, our heritage, and our future sustaining food, livelihoods, energy, and a rich environment for millions of Filipinos.

Why It Matters Our Role

Call to Action

Learn, speak up, support, and unite your actions matter.

Students learning together

Learn

Educate yourself and others about the West Philippine Sea and why it matters.

  • Read primers and share reliable sources
  • Include the topic in school projects
  • Host a community teach‑in
Megaphone symbolizing speaking up

Speak Up

Use social media, school projects, and community discussions to share awareness.

  • Share facts, counter misinformation respectfully
  • Invite classmates and family to learn more
  • Support peaceful, lawful advocacy
Volunteers at a coastal clean‑up

Support

Help others and young people understand their role in protecting our seas.

  • Participate in coastal or river clean-ups
  • Encourage others to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
  • Promote eco-friendly habits
People holding hands in unity at the shore

Unite

As one Filipino nation, let us show the world that the West Philippine Sea is ours to protect.

  • Use unifying language and respect diverse views
  • Stand for peace, justice, and rule of law
  • Encourage inclusive, community‑led actions

About

The West Philippine Sea is more than a body of water it is our territory, our heritage, and our future. It provides food, livelihood, and resources that sustain millions of Filipinos and support our nation’s growth.

But today, it faces threats from foreign intrusion, environmental destruction, and challenges to our sovereignty. These endanger our rights, our dignity, and the lives of our fishermen who depend on these waters every day.

As students and youth, we must not stay silent. We have the power to learn, speak up, and inspire others to care. Protecting the West Philippine Sea means defending our people, our culture, and our pride as Filipinos. Together, let us stand strong for our home, our seas, and the Philippines we proudly call ours.

Why We Protect the West Philippine Sea

  • Food and economic security for millions of Filipinos
  • Rich marine biodiversity and climate resilience
  • Rule of law, cooperation, and peaceful seas
  • Energy and natural resources that can drive national progress
  • Protection of our fishermen’s rights and safety
  • Conservation of coral reefs and marine ecosystems vital to global biodiversity
  • Strengthening national unity, pride, and responsibility among Filipinos
  • Ensuring a sustainable future for the next generations
Map of the West Philippine Sea
30%

The WPS contains about 30% of the country’s coral reefs

27%

Contributes ~27% of the Philippines’ commercial fisheries production

71

Reef fish species identified in selected WPS survey areas

4,640 km²

Estimated total coral reef area in the WPS

Hotspot

Global hotspot for soft coral richness and endemism

Why It Matters

Filipino fisherfolk at sea

For Our Fisherfolk

The West Philippine Sea is their source of livelihood. Protecting it means protecting their daily bread. It ensures that our fishermen can safely work, provide for their families, and continue the tradition of sustaining coastal communities for generations.

Boats and resources symbolizing the blue economy

For Our Economy

Its natural resources from fish to energy reserves help fuel our nation’s growth. The West Philippine Sea provides vital fishing grounds that support thousands of Filipino families and supplies seafood to local markets, while its untapped oil and gas reserves offer potential for energy independence and economic stability.

Philippine flag by the sea

For Our Identity

It is a symbol of our independence and our unity as Filipinos. The West Philippine Sea reflects our shared history, pride, and determination to protect what rightfully belongs to our nation, reminding us that defending it is a duty of every Filipino.

Our Role as Citizen of Philippines

We may not be lawmakers or soldiers, but our voices matter. By raising awareness, spreading truth, and standing united, we strengthen our nation’s call for peace, justice, and sovereignty. As the next generation, it is our duty to stay informed, speak up, and take action. Through education, advocacy, and sustainable practices, we can protect the West Philippine Sea and inspire others to do the same. The sea is not just for today it is the future we will inherit. Together, let us be the voice of hope, defenders of truth, and guardians of our nation’s seas.

Community Voices

Share your story, perspective, or commitment to help protect the West Philippine Sea.

  • Fisherfolk, students, scientists, and advocates are welcome
  • Stories may be featured to inspire others
  • Respectful, unifying messages encouraged

The West Philippine Sea is a part of the Philippines. It is a part of us. Together, with courage and unity, let’s defend it not just for today, but for the generations to come.