On National Heroes Day, we honor those unsung Filipino heroes who may not have monuments or prominent mentions in history books, but have demonstrated immense bravery and courage in safeguarding the Philippines and its interests. The holiday celebrates the collective bravery of all Filipino heroes who have selflessly sacrificed their lives or faced persecution in pursuit of justice, freedom, and the love for their homeland.
Among these modern-day heroes, the members of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) stand out. They fearlessly carry out their duties to protect Philippine territory in the face of Chinese military aggression in the West Philippine Sea. Despite constant harassment from the China Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese maritime militia, the PCG successfully conducted a rotation and resupply mission for the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal on August 22. This is not an isolated incident, as the PCG has faced numerous encounters with Chinese forces while conducting missions in Philippine territory.
Senator Risa Hontiveros has acknowledged the regular harassment and intimidation the PCG endures from the Chinese, who persistently assert debunked rights over the West Philippine Sea. It is crucial to recognize and support the dedicated members of the PCG by strengthening their capabilities through increased funding for intelligence operations and maritime patrols. Currently, the PCG receives a meager amount of P10 million for its intelligence fund since 2009, which falls far short of what is required to enhance their performance.
Besides financial support, ordinary Filipinos can show their appreciation for the PCG by standing with them in the digital realm. The PCG often faces condemnation online when they expose dangerous encounters with the Chinese. It is disheartening to see pro-China propagandists spreading false narratives, echoed by some Filipinos. Commodore Jay Tarriela, the PCG spokesperson, rightly criticizes these individuals for being unpatriotic and traitors to the Philippines. To truly celebrate National Heroes Day, Filipinos should reject disinformation, support funding for the PCG, and condemn the traitors among us.
The PCG serves as the country’s first line of defense in safeguarding our maritime territories, including vital areas like the West Philippine Sea, Benham Rise, the Sulu Sea, the Luzon Strait, and the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. Their dedicated efforts allow us to live our daily lives with peace of mind. Let us honor and recognize these unsung heroes on National Heroes Day by translating our sentiments into tangible actions that demonstrate our unwavering support for the PCG.
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