Baguio City – In line with the thrusts and guidance of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM), the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army (PA) through the Joint Task Unit “Panagkaykaysa” (JTUP), 5th Civil Military Operations Battalion (5CMOBn), CMO Regiment, PA and 1st Civil Relations Group (1CRG), CRSAFP successfully conducted the “West Philippine Sea Photo Gallery Exhibit” from 03 to 07 May 2025 at SM City Baguio.
This 5-day public engagement initiative showcased the importance of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) pertaining to its ecological, economic, and national security relevance. The event included a specially prepared exhibit of captivating photographs, educational information stands, and on the spot information education campaigns.
Aligned with the AFP’s Communication Plan “MULAT”, JTUP, 5CMOBn and 1CRG took on the initiative to conduct a photo gallery exhibit in the city with the purpose to facilitate direct engagement with the public. It offered flyers, educational leaflets, and curators were present to discuss key issues and ongoing advocacies concerning the West Philippine Sea.
Notably, throughout the five days, the exhibit reached around 1,600 visitors, significantly enhancing public understanding and appreciation of the country’s maritime claims and territorial integrity. This advocacy extended beyond the physical exhibit space in the mall, hence, even reached a wider audience through multimedia approach such as the social media, news, articles, and digital narratives to ensure that more people could be engaged with or be informed about the advocacy.
Visitors also expressed their appreciation for putting up such exhibits especially in public areas just like in malls because when people happened to pass by the photo gallery exhibit about the West Philippine Sea, they ended up learning more, discovering new information, and gaining a deeper understanding of what the West Philippine Sea really is and why the country must fight for it.
The West Philippine Sea Photo Gallery Exhibit captured more than just a visual experience – it was an emotional involvement into the country’s rich maritime history. It was designed to engage not only to the Filipino people but also to those who carry the Philippines in their hearts and heritage. The exhibit invited every viewer, whether local or to those Filipinos with foreign blood- to think about their stand and shared responsibility on protecting the country’s sovereignty. It was a unifying medium for diverse cultures, communities, and generations to come together in pride and share a deep connection to the West Philippine Sea.
The event further strengthened the AFP’s commitment in promoting nationalism, patriotism, informed citizenship, and active participation in addressing national issues through peaceful and creative means.
