10 March 2015 - To kick off this year’s nationwide information, education and communication (IEC) campaign on the West Philippine Sea Issue, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) co-organized a Multi-Sectoral Forum today, March 10, in Camp Lapulapu, Cebu City, Cebu.

DFA Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Charles C. Jose conducted a briefing on the West Philippine Sea Issue for more than 80 students, national and local government unit representatives, uniformed personnel, and members of Cebu’s press, business and academic communities. His presentation focused on the core issues, the overarching principles that guide Philippine response to the issues, and the steps that are being undertaken by the Philippine Government to address the disputes.

Underscoring that the West Philippine Sea Issue is a matter of national interest, the presentation delved into the importance of the seas to the country’s economy and security.

A Q&A session followed Assistant Secretary Jose’s presentation.

Earlier in the day, the DFA Spokesperson paid a courtesy call on Lt. General Nicanor M. Vivar, the Commanding General of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command (CENTCOM). The two officials exchanged views on current developments in the WPS, including China’s land reclamation activities in the contested areas. Assistant Secretary Jose also fielded questions from CENTCOM officers who sought clarification on the status, processes and implications of the arbitration case.

In his welcome remarks at the forum, Lt. General Vivar expressed support for the IEC campaign, citing the need for a “multi-stake approach” to the issue. He exhorted the guests to listen intently to the presentation and to educate themselves on the disputes.

Ms. Minerva B.C. Newman, PIA’s Regional Director for Central Visayas, stated that it is the responsibility of every Filipino to learn more about the West Philippine Sea. She urged everyone to disseminate the key points of the DFA Spokesperson’s presentation, saying that doing so is also a demonstration of love of country.

After the forum, Assistant Secretary Jose granted an interview with Cebu media on the WPS issue and other DFA-related topics.

The Multi-Sectoral Forum was organized in cooperation with the DFA Regional Consular Office in Cebu, headed by Officer-in-Charge Atty. Anika Fernandez, and Smart Communications. 

The Multi-Sectoral Forum is an expanded version of the Special Kapihan ng Mamamayan on the West Philippine Sea which was held last year in the cities of Olongapo, Puerto Princesa and Iloilo. Similar events will be conducted across the country throughout 2015. END