Manila, Philippines – The National Youth Movement for West Philippine Sea (NYMWPS) has formally addressed a letter dated July 8, 2024 to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. and Secretary Sonny Angara of the Department of Education, calling for the inclusion of the history and significance of the West Philippine Sea in the K-12 curriculum.

Maverick Paul Bersalona, NYMWPS National Chair and Director for Internal Affairs and Membership for YOUTH Sector says, “This initiative aims to educate young Filipinos about the vital importance of this region to our nation’s heritage and future.”

The NYMWPS, an organization dedicated to the preservation of Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizes the critical need for educating young Filipinos about the West Philippine Sea.

“The West Philippine Sea is not merely a geographical location but a region with profound historical, cultural, economic, and geopolitical significance. By integrating its history and relevance into the K-12 curriculum, NYMWPS believes that students will gain a comprehensive understanding of their nation’s maritime heritage”, says Dr. Celia Lamkin, NYMWPS founder and global chairperson.

The key objectives of the initiative are:

1. Raising Awareness: Highlighting the impacts of aggressive activities by other nations.
2. Fostering Patriotism: Cultivating love for the country among students.
3. Respecting Sovereignty: Instilling respect for Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity.
4. Promoting Conservation: Encouraging the preservation, conservation, and sustainability of the Philippine ecosystem.
5. Encouraging Unity: Promoting love and respect for the Filipino people

In the letter, the NYMWPS outlined several key reasons for inclusion of WPS history and issues in the K-12 curriculum:

1. Historical Significance:
   Educating students on the historical claims, events, and treaties that have defined our maritime boundaries.
2. Geopolitical Importance:
   Understanding the strategic significance of the West Philippine Sea and the intricate relationships between the Philippines and neighboring countries.
3. Economic Value: Highlighting the economic stakes, including rich fishing grounds, potential oil and gas reserves, and crucial maritime trade routes.
4. Environmental Education: Promoting awareness of the unique marine biodiversity, conservation efforts, and the impact of human activities on marine life.
5. Cultural Connection: Fostering respect and unity by teaching about the sea’s cultural importance to coastal communities.

The NYMWPS also underscores the regional, continental, and global importance of the West Philippine Sea. Its strategic location impacts regional security, international trade, and global maritime dynamics.

“Integrating the West Philippine Sea into the K-12 curriculum will provide students with a well-rounded education, preparing them for future challenges and fostering a deep appreciation for their heritage,” says Jojo Sebastian, Co-Chair of NYMWPS Australia chapter and a member of the NYMWPS Education Subcommittee on Education (WPS Inclusion in K-12 curriculum).

“The organization also calls on law schools to enhance their teachings on territorial rights, thereby producing future lawyers who are well-versed in the legal aspects of the Philippines’ maritime claims and can actively contribute to preserving our sovereignty,” added Dr. Carolyn R. Valenton, a dean of a private college in Metro Manila and the chairperson of the NYMWPS Education and Research Committee.

The letter also underscores the regional, continental, and global relevance of the West Philippine Sea, emphasizing its crucial role in regional security, international trade, and global maritime dynamics.

The National Youth Movement for West Philippine Sea (NYMWPS) envisions a free, peaceful, stable, and secure West Philippine Sea and territories for better lives of Filipino people and a better Philippines. Their mission is the preservation of Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity.

📷 NYMWPS