PCG partners up with NYC, PIA to enlist youth in combating fake news about WPS
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has tapped the National Youth Commission (NYC) for its awareness campaign in the West Philippine Sea, especially due to the spread of fake news surrounding China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea.
The PCG signed a memorandum of understanding with the NYC and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) on Wednesday to help combat misinformation and disinformation about the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The PCG already partnered with PIA last year for a regional caravan on its WPS information campaign drive.
PCG commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan said in his speech during the MOU signing that “the fight in the West Philippine Sea is as strong as how we empower our people.”
“Empowering the people means, foremost, they should know what is the truth, what are the right things involved in the West Philippine Sea,” he said, adding that the “most critical aspect” of the population is the youth.
According to him, the issue with the WPS would be “a generational activity” and “is anchored on how well the youth will carry on the fight for the country.”
Joseph Francisco Ortega, the NYC chair, said that the WPS was
“not just about territorial disputes, it is about safeguarding our nation’s resources, upholding international law, and securing a prosperous and peaceful future for generations to come.”
Ortega said the youth “may not be in positions of political power just yet, but we hold an even greater strength – the power of unity, awareness, and action.”
“The youth has always played a crucial role in shaping our nation’s history. Today, we are once again called upon to defend what is rightfully ours, using our voices, our knowledge, and our unwavering patriotism,” he added.
According to him, the NYC would help in raising awareness, educating, and engaging the youth in matters related to the WPS.
With the signing of the MOU, he hoped to “ignite a nationwide movement that fosters a deeper understanding of the issue and inspire meaningful action.”
He said the NYC could serve as the primary channel for youth engagement,
Initiating programs that would encourage young leaders to advocate for maritime security by integrating discussions on the WPS into its youth summits, leadership programs, and community engagements.
Katherine de Castro, the director general of PIA, stated that the partnership would further assist the government in promoting messages of transparency, solidarity, and national pride.
“We aim to empower young Filipinos with knowledge, inspire nation-building, and strengthen their role in safeguarding our national interests,” De Castro said.
“It is our aim that our youth will not be easily swayed by false information about the West Philippine Sea,” she added.
The government, through the National Task Force on the WPS, produced a comic book earlier to educate Filipinos on the importance of their maritime claims, sovereignty, and sovereign rights in the WPS.
