The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has established the Alliance of Fisherfolk for Truthful Information and Narratives on the West Philippine Sea (ATIN WPS) to address misinformation regarding the contested waters.

This initiative trains fisherfolk on legal and factual aspects of the West Philippine Sea, empowering them to disseminate accurate information within their communities.

BFAR emphasized that fisherfolk are directly impacted by developments in the area and aims to equip them with evidence-based knowledge to counter disinformation.

The program also focuses on enhancing critical thinking and responsible communication among participants, while deepening their understanding of Philippine and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).Technical training covers the 2016 arbitral award, maritime entitlements, and strategies to combat misinformation.

The initiative received support from the National Security Council and the US Embassy's Fish Right Project, following a confrontation at Ayungin Shoal involving the China Coast Guard and Philippine Navy personnel.The 2016 ruling by the Hague tribunal invalidated China's claims over the South China Sea, a stance China has rejected.This alliance underscores the importance of informed communities in navigating geopolitical tensions.