The conflict in the West Philippine Sea is often seen as relevant only to communities in Luzon, but the alarming truth is that it could determine the fate of the Philippines’ broader maritime sovereignty — including waters off Visayas and Mindanao. Maritime law expert Neil Simon Silva said the Philippines’ success or failure in defending its claims in the West Philippine Sea sets powerful legal and diplomatic precedents that even Ilonggos should care about.

Castor, R. Z. (2025, July 17). What’s at stake if Philippines loses WPS — and why it matters to all of us . DailyGuardian, pp. 1, 11.