Various groups on Tuesday led an advance celebration for the awaited decision of the International Arbitral Tribunal on the case of Philippines against China’s claims over West Philippine Sea.
Two hours before the decision was released, members of US Pinoys for Good Governance (USPGG), Marcha Kontra Tsina, Vietnamese Community in the Philippines (VCP), Kalayaan Atin Ito and Akbayan –Youth marched to the sea wall of Manila Bay for a symbolic release of balloons and Sampaguita flowers.
Leaders of the groups said the tri-colored balloons in blue, red and yellow and the offering of Sampaguita flowers symbolized their advocacy to protect Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.
Later in the day, the groups’ wishes came true as the Tribunal released a 500-paged document detailing its decision affirming Philippines’ claims and criticizing China for violating another country’s sovereign rights.
“It’s the colors of our flag. It’s a symbol of hope at saka national symbol natin ‘yun (Sampaguita flowers),” said former congressman Roilo Golez, head of Marcha Kontra Tsina.
Meanwhile, Rogelio Santos, Filipino-American citizen and a representative to the USPGG said that in case the current administration takes a softer position on the issue, it will be up to civil society and activists “to be vocal on the matter.”
“I’m hoping that the world will continue to support us,” he said.
Around 150 Filipino and Vietnamese nationals attended the event. KC Tayam, INQUIRER.net trainee/KS
