SUBIC, Zambales — Hundreds of fisherfolk from Zambales, led by the Atin Ito Coalition, launched a symbolic sea action in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on 5 July.

The activity marked the 10th anniversary of the Philippines' landmark 2016 Arbitral Ruling, with nearly 80 fishing boats forming a giant Philippine flag and the words "WPS, ATIN ITO!" at sea. Around 250 fisherfolk participated in the event, while the coalition renewed its call to declare 12 July as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day.

The New Masinloc Fishermen Association, the Subic Commercial Fishers Association, and the Samahan ng Cabangaan-3 Fishermen's Unity took part in the sea action, celebrating the country's 2016 arbitral victory while reaffirming their opposition to what they described as continuing Chinese harassment and aggression in traditional fishing grounds.

"Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang ika-sampung anibersaryo ng ating makasaysayang tagumpay, muli nating pinagtitibay ang ating paninindigan para sa mahal nating West Philippine Sea. Ang tagumpay sa arbitral ruling ay mahalaga, ngunit hindi pa tapos ang laban. Hanggang patuloy ang panghihimasok at agresyon ng Tsina sa ating karagatan, patuloy din tayong maninindigan at lalaban para sa ating karapatan," said Leonardo "Ka Nards" Cuaresma, president of the New Masinloc Fishermen Association.

Atin Ito co-convenor Rafaela David called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to issue an executive order declaring 12 July of every year as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day, saying the country should institutionalize the commemoration of one of its most significant diplomatic victories while honoring fisherfolk and frontliners defending the country's maritime rights.

"July 12 is more than a date in our history, it is a reminder that truth, international law, and the courage of the Filipino people prevailed. Declaring it as National West Philippine Sea Victory Day will help preserve this victory in our national memory, strengthen public awareness and education, and ensure that future generations are equipped to reject disinformation and defend what is rightfully ours," said David, who is also president of Akbayan Party.

The sea action marked the start of Atin Ito's week-long commemoration of the arbitral ruling's 10th anniversary, which will culminate on 12 July.

On 10 July, the coalition is set to join diplomats, legal experts, government officials, and journalists in a forum organized by the Stratbase Institute. On 12 July, Atin Ito leaders will participate in a West Philippine Sea parade in Puerto Princesa alongside the provincial government of Palawan and residents of the Municipality of Kalayaan.

Throughout the week, the coalition will also recognize local government units that have passed resolutions declaring 12 July as West Philippine Sea Victory Day.