Cultural Preservation

In a momentous journey that bridges centuries of separation, 60 Indigenous paddlers from Taiwan's Tao people set sail Monday on a traditional wooden longboat, retracing an ancestral maritime route to the Philippines' Batanes Islands for the first time in 300 years.

For Jasmine, the West Philippine Sea is a symbol of identity, livelihood, and hope for future generations. Through her artwork, she painted the image of a Filipino fisherman standing firmly on a boat while raising the Philippine flag against the backdrop of a bright morning sun. The fisherman represents the countless Filipinos who depend on the sea for their daily survival, while the waving flag embodies courage, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of the nation.

Among the many entries showcased in the poster-making contest, the artwork of Third Prize winner Ms. Noreen Grace Resuena stood out as a compelling expression of patriotism and national pride. Through her poster titled “Sa manlulupig, ’di ka pasisiil. ANG ATIN AY ATIN.” (“Never yield to oppressors. WHAT IS OURS IS OURS.”), she transformed her canvas into a powerful statement on sovereignty, unity, and the Filipino people's enduring connection to the West Philippine Sea. Expla

The AFP’s involvement in the mural festival reflects its broader efforts to enhance national awareness, strengthen community relationships, and cultivate a shared understanding of the WPS as a vital component of identity.