PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan — A multi-sectoral alliance from Palawan is set to join the civilian Christmas convoy to the West Philippine Sea today.

Joaquin Ortega, the convenor of P4 and son of the late broadcaster Dr. Gerry Ortega, said the still informal group, the Palawan Patriots for Peace and Progress, is at the forefront of this initiative.

The alliance is made up of individuals from the province's 3rd District, dedicated to peace and development, focusing on the welfare of all Filipinos.

Ortega said that a key goal of their group in joining the trip is to broaden the understanding of Palaweños regarding the area also being claimed by China.

The knowledge expansion is intended to empower them to actively participate in defending the country's rights over the features within its exclusive economic zone, Ortega said.

"Upholding of the Philippines' interests in the West Philippine Sea and the need to inform and unite Palaweños in safeguarding and exercising our sovereign rights over the WPS and our exclusive economic zone is among our concerns," he said.

The Christmas convoy to Ayungin Shoal is an initiative spearheaded by the Atin Ito coalition.

Ortega said he extended an invitation to other civic groups in Palawan that share a similar stance on the WPS matter to collaborate in this endeavor.

The alliance, in addition to the Palawan Patriots, includes a diverse mix of organizations: The youth-driven Ahon Palaweño, Chef Aiza's Community Kitchen, the Environmental Legal Assistance Center, Palawenyo Savers Club, the Pioneer Publication of Palawan State University and Saguda Palawan.

The group sought and received support from House Speaker Martin Romualdez, the current caretaker of Palawan's 3rd District following the demise of former representative and Puerto Princesa mayor Edward Hagedorn.

He said the Speaker's support was important for their participation in the upcoming Christmas Convoy.

At the time of reporting, members of the alliance, along with some Palawan-based journalists, are traveling overland from Puerto Princesa City to El Nido in northern Palawan.

Ortega said the journey is part of their effort to converge with other Manila-based participants yesterday before the convoy sets sail today. 

Prior to their departure, the Atin Ito coalition will conduct a safety briefing for those participating in the convoy.

Following this, participants will board the TS Kapitan Felix Oca and vessels operated by the Philippine Coast Guard, setting sail to navigate the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal and other claimed features cleared for their visit.