The Iloilo Provincial Government has organized a lecture on the West Philippine Sea at the Casa Real de Iloilo, featuring Former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio.

The event aimed to educate students, teachers, and government officials about the historical, legal, and economic significance of the Philippines’ territorial claims in the region.

Attendees included a diverse group of students, educators, local government officials, and provincial government employees. 

Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. emphasized the need to educate the youth about the country’s territorial rights, highlighting the importance of understanding international law to protect the nation’s sovereignty and natural resources in the West Philippine Sea. 

The lecture was part of the Bulig Eskwela sang Probinsya (BES Probins) program, an initiative designed to provide transformative and relevant education to Ilonggo students. This program aims to equip the youth with the knowledge needed to become responsible citizens and protect the country’s territorial integrity.

Carpio’s lecture focused on historical maps from 1734, 1808, and 1875, which clearly show that the Philippines has long had territorial claims over the Scarborough Shoal and the Spratlys.

He explained that the dispute is not only about sovereignty but also about the economic importance of the West Philippine Sea, which is a vital source of the country’s fish supply and plays a significant role in its energy needs.

Carpio also mentioned ongoing discussions with the Department of Education to include lessons on the West Philippine Sea in the national curriculum for basic education. 

In addition to the lecture, Iloilo passed Provincial Ordinance 2026-347, also known as the I-LOVE West Philippine Sea (WPS) Ordinance. This new ordinance mandates the integration of maritime rights into the local school curriculum, furthering the province’s efforts to raise awareness about the West Philippine Sea among its residents. 

Carpio praised Iloilo’s leadership in passing the ordinance and encouraged other local government units across the country to adopt similar measures. 

The goal is to ensure that future generations of Filipinos understand the historical and legal basis of the country’s territorial claims and are prepared to protect its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. AAL/JNH/PIA Iloilo