Cebu City dad: ‘WPS Victory Day’ is about peace, sovereignty not hostility

Local

CEBU City Councilor Pablo “Paul” Labra II clarified that the observance of West Philippine Sea Victory Day is intended to promote peace and uphold international law, not to provoke conflict.

Labra stressed that the observance is "not an expression of hostility toward any nation" but a reaffirmation of the Philippines' commitment to truth, international law, and the defense of its sovereign rights.

"Make no mistake: our observance of West Philippine Sea Victory Day is not an expression of hostility toward any nation. It is an affirmation of our commitment to truth. It is a declaration of our respect for international law. It is a reminder that while we always choose peace, we must never surrender our principles," he said in his speech during the local observation of the 2016 Arbitral Ruling on the West Philippine Sea on Sunday, July 13, 2026, led by the Visayas Command (VISCOM), Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Labra said the annual observance serves as a reminder that while Filipinos remain committed to peace, they must remain steadfast in defending the country's sovereignty and principles.

He described the landmark 2016 arbitral ruling as a victory achieved not through force but through "courage, wisdom, perseverance, and faith in the rule of law," emphasizing that justice belongs not only to powerful nations but also to countries that stand firmly for what is right.

According to Labra, the victory belongs to every Filipino—from fishermen who brave uncertain seas, sailors safeguarding the country's waters, members of the Armed Forces, Philippine Coast Guard and law enforcement agencies, to teachers instilling patriotism and ordinary citizens who believe that the country's sovereignty and dignity are non-negotiable.

Labra also highlighted Cebu City's institutional recognition of the historic legal victory, noting that he sponsored the resolution unanimously approved by the Cebu City Council declaring every July 12 as West Philippine Sea Victory Day in the city.

The measure seeks to preserve the significance of the arbitral ruling for future generations while strengthening patriotism, public awareness, and respect for international law.

Last June 22, 2026, the Chinese Consulate General in Cebu formally objected to the resolution through a diplomatic note.

In the diplomatic note, the Chinese Consulate expressed its "gravest concern and firm opposition" to the Cebu City Council's declaration of July 12 as "West Philippine Sea Victory Day."

The consulate described the commemoration as marking the "so-called Arbitral Victory in South China Sea" and reiterated Beijing's position that the 2016 arbitral ruling is illegal and without legal effect.

It further characterized the arbitration as "a political farce disguised in legal clothing" while insisting that China's sovereignty, sovereign rights, and maritime jurisdiction in the South China Sea are "solidly rooted in history and law" and are "indisputable."

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Israel Galorio, assistant chief for unified staff, civil military operations of VISCOM, underscored the importance of protecting the West Philippine Sea, describing it as vital to the country's future and identity.

"Let us remember that the West Philippine Sea is not just a body of water; it is a livelihood for our people, food for our tables, energy for our progress, and heritage for our children," Galorio said in his speech.

"To defend it is to defend our very identity as a nation. As we commemorate this Dekada ng Batas, let us renew our commitment to peace, justice, and unity."

Galorio also urged Filipinos to remain united in safeguarding the country's sovereign rights.

"Let us stand together, resolute in the belief that the Philippines will never waver, never yield, and never falter in the defense of our sovereignty. Together we declare the law is our shield, unity is our strength, and the future of the Philippines is ours to protect," he said.

Echoing the same message, Labra said patriotism is demonstrated not only during commemorative events but also through honest work, respect for the law, and service to fellow Filipinos.

"The strongest nation is not necessarily the one with the greatest military power. It is the nation whose people remain united by shared values, mutual respect, and an unwavering love for their homeland," he said.

Labra expressed hope that July 12 would eventually be observed nationwide not merely as a historical anniversary but as a lasting reminder of the country's sovereignty, unity, and commitment to the rule of law.

He concluded by urging Filipinos to ensure that future generations inherit a nation that remains free, peaceful, sovereign, and respected among the community of nations.(MyTVCebu)