Stakeholders are urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.to issue an executive order (EO) declaring July 12 as the 'National West Philippine Sea Victory Day' to commemorate the 2016 landmark ruling that upheld the Philippines' sovereignty over the contested South China Sea area.

The call emphasizes institutionalizing the commemoration to ensure the victory is preserved in national memory, strengthen public awareness, and equip future generations to defend maritime rights.

Local think-tank Stratbase Institute highlighted the need for 'concrete and sustained action' to honor the ruling, while the Atin Ito Coalition stressed the importance of marking the anniversary to reject disinformation.The Armed Forces of the Philippines also encouraged local governments to declare July 12 as a victory day.Despite these efforts, Marcos has not yet acceded to the pleas.The proposal aligns with earlier bills filed in 2019 to institutionalize the date as a special holiday, though none were approved.

Marcos reiterated his commitment to upholding territorial sovereignty, countering his predecessor's stance of avoiding conflict with China over the South China Sea dispute.