SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, newly promoted to Auxiliary Vice Admiral of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), on Sunday urged Filipinos to take an active role in defending the nation’s maritime territory.
With tensions escalating in the West Philippine Sea—marked by increased Chinese incursions and disinformation claiming Palawan as part of China—Speaker Romualdez called on citizens to volunteer for the PCGA and stand united in protecting Philippine sovereignty.
“Hindi na ito panahon para magsawalang-kibo. Araw-araw, sinusubukan ng ibang bansa na angkinin ang ating karagatan. Kung tayo mismo ay hindi kikilos, sino pa ang magtatanggol sa atin?” declared the leader of the 306-strong House of Representatives.
China’s aggressive maneuvers have intensified, with its Coast Guard recently attempting to block a Philippine civilian boat delivering supplies to BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal.
Filipino fisherfolk continue to face harassment, while Chinese militia vessels maintain a threatening presence in Philippine waters.
“Walang bansang may karapatang mangharang ng ating mga sundalo, mangingisda, at kababayan sa sarili nating dagat. Hindi natin ito ipagpapalit sa takot o sa bulong ng iba. Ang West Philippine Sea ay atin—hindi lang sa papel, kundi sa tunay na buhay,” the Speaker asserted.
Speaker Romualdez warned that China is attacking on two fronts, using military aggression at sea and digital propaganda on land, falsely claiming Palawan to weaken national resistance and divide Filipinos.
“Ginagamit nila hindi lang ang barko, kundi pati ang internet para pasunurin tayo. Isang araw, gigising na lang tayo at sinasabi na nilang hindi sa atin ang Palawan. Hindi natin ito palalampasin,” Speaker Romualdez stressed.
The House leader pointed out that safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity is not solely the responsibility of the military.
He said the PCGA provides a way for civilians to contribute to national defense, maritime security, environmental protection, and disaster response.
Volunteers assist in search-and-rescue missions, coastal cleanups, and marine biodiversity conservation. They also help educate local communities on maritime safety and monitor illegal activities at sea.
In times of natural disasters, PCGA members provide critical manpower for relief operations and emergency evacuations.
“Ang paglilingkod sa bayan ay hindi lang para sa mga nakauniporme. Lahat tayo may magagawa. Sa pagsali sa PCGA, mas marami tayong nagbabantay, mas malakas ang ating depensa,” Speaker Romualdez said.
The PCGA welcomes Filipino citizens aged 18 and above, including those with experience in maritime affairs, environmental conservation and public safety.
Applicants must complete basic requirements, including an application form, photographs and an orientation seminar.
Those in Metro Manila may contact the 109th PCGA Squadron Office in Sta. Cruz, Manila, or the Coast Guard Auxiliary District NCR-Central Luzon in Pasay City.
Speaker Romualdez expressed confidence that Filipinos would heed this call, citing a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by Stratbase Group.
The survey found that 77% of Filipinos support strengthening national defense through international alliances, joint patrols and military exercises.
“Ang laban sa West Philippine Sea ay hindi lang laban ng gobyerno. Laban ito ng buong sambayanan. At kung gusto natin ng mga lider na ipaglalaban ang ating karapatan, tayo mismo ang dapat manguna,” the Speaker said.
