Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) — A group recently launched an initiative to raise awareness about the real situation in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), and collect donations for fisherfolk and Filipino troops manning BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
Speaking to CNN Philippines’ The Source on Thursday, Atin Ito campaign convenor Edicio dela Torre said the group was formed to push for the common goal of helping those most affected by China’s aggressive actions in the WPS.
“We came together and said let’s focus…on helping directly the fisherfolk and then others said tulungan na rin natin ang coast guard, pangalawa tulungan na rin ‘yung BRP Sierra Madre (we should also help the coast guard and the troops aboard BRP Sierra Madre),” he said.
BRP Sierra Madre, a US Navy ship used during World War II, has been at Ayungin Shoal since 1999. It was intentionally grounded there to serve as the country’s military outpost in the contested waters.
Atin Ito is composed of different groups like the Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement, the Center for Agrarian Reform for Empowerment and Transformation, Akbayan, as well as various artists, and other non-government organizations. It launched its project this week which will involve different activities.
Organizers are asking for non-monetary donations, including but not limited to canned goods (except canned fish items), noodles, water, long-sleeved shirts, slippers, bucket hats , toiletries, flashlights, and medical supplies (over-the-counter medication, antibiotic ointment, alcohol).
Donations may be dropped off at the following locations:
Team Manila Lifestyle – Suez Street corner Zapote, Makati City
PRRM – 56 Mother Ignacia Street corner Dr. Lazcano Street, Quezon City
Akbayan Party – 23 Maalindog Street, UP Village, Quezon City
CARET – Unit 213 Eagle Court Condominium, 26 Matalino Street, Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City
Atin Ito hopes to conduct an all-civilian supply mission to deliver some of the goods to Filipino troops aboard BRP Sierra Madre.
Dela Torre said the group is coordinating with the Philippine Coast Guard and are seeking approval from the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea to conduct the mission.
He added this will not be a one-time program as they will look for more ways to deliver the needed supply of Filipino troops aboard BRP Sierra Madre.
Authorities conducted another successful resupply mission on Wednesday despite China’s attempt “to block, harass, and interfere,” the National Security Council said.
It added a significant number of China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels interfered with the mission.
