Philippine flag flies over Philippine Rise on 8th renaming anniversary

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine flag is now flying over Philippine Rise as the country’s assertion of sovereignty, on the eighth anniversary of its renaming yesterday.

The Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) said a series of strategic maritime and commemorative activities were held during the anniversary rites yesterday, with a send-off ceremony for BRP Emilio Jacinto at Soiltech Pier, San Fernando City in La Union.

The Emilio Jacinto and its crew received a formal inspection and blessing before sailing to the Philippine Rise to serve as the Armed Forces’ representative force in a symbolic and strategic mission, NOLCOM chief Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca said.

The Philippine Rise – formerly Benham Rise before being officially renamed through Executive Order 25 – is a 13-million-hectare undersea plateau east of Luzon. Rich in marine biodiversity and natural resources, it plays a vital role in national food security and defense strategy.

Buca said the Philippine flag is hoisted over Philippine Rise as “a clear and powerful statement of the country’s unyielding commitment to assert and uphold its maritime entitlements.”

Senior leaders of the Armed Forces and key stakeholders from the civilian maritime sector attended yesterday’s sendoff of the Emilio Jacinto as a clear show of solidarity in the national effort to secure the country’s eastern frontier.

The Philippine vessel’s presence underscored a whole-of-nation approach to maritime awareness and defense, Buca said.

According to him, “the Philippine Rise is not just part of our territory – it is part of our identity,” and yesterday’s sendoff ceremony, Buca said, “is not merely a ceremonial departure, but a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to protect what is ours. Your presence out there speaks louder than words – you are the guardians of our seas and the visible force behind our peaceful assertion of sovereign rights.”

Buca urged his men to embody the values of “Matapang, masipag, magalang at responsable,” as they carry out their duties in defense of national interest.

“Be matapang (brave) to defend what is ours. Be masipag (hard working) in exploring opportunities for research, for resources and for possible stewardship. Be magalang (respectful) in the frontline where your patience and composure will be tested. Finally, be responsable (responsible) in your actions. Radiate the sense of vigilance, unity and patriotism. More than anything else, this will converge to secure a better future for generations of Filipinos,” he reiterated.

Spearheaded by the Naval Forces Northern Luzon, the anniversary rites exemplify the Armed Forces’ resolve to assert Philippine sovereignty over the resource-rich maritime area, the NOLCOM said, while vowing to “continue to perform its critical mission as a jointly engaged, sustainment-maintained and readiness-trained force by conducting regular maritime patrols, surveillance operations and inter-agency coordination to deter illicit activities and secure national resources.”