Coastal Leaders Back Government Protection of Marine Territory | Pangasinan

Fisherfolk and leaders from La Union and nearby provinces unite at a regional summit.

According to PNA, local leaders and fisherfolk representatives praised national government efforts to protect the West Philippine Sea during a regional maritime summit on July 23, 2026. The gathering marked the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award in the South China Sea Arbitration.

La Union Gov. Mario Eduardo Ortega expressed strong support for the national government’s stance, emphasizing a firm but peaceful approach to safeguarding ocean resources. He stated that coastal provinces like La Union serve as crucial partners in supporting national defense and marine security policies.

The event, titled the “Bayanihan para sa Kanlurang Dagat ng Pilipinas 2026” Summit, took place at the Sison Auditorium in Lingayen, Pangasinan. Officials and community delegates attended from multiple coastal provinces, including La Union, Batanes, Zambales, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Palawan, Bataan, and Oriental Mindoro.

Edgar Sison, chairperson of the Lingayen Municipal Agricultural and Fisheries Council, stressed that local fishing communities depend directly on protected waters for their daily income. He urged continued assistance for residents who work in marine and aquaculture fishing.

To support coastal communities, the national government, through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), continues to provide:

Motorized fishing boats for local operators
Fishing nets and essential gear
Direct community dialogues between fishers and national officials

Pangasinan Gov. Ramon Guico III stated that standing firm on territorial rights ensures long-term peace, fairness, and economic growth for coastal residents across the region.

SOURCE: PNA