The search for peace in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) continues as China claims most of it, including the Philippine’s exclusive economic zone, as its own despite evidence based on international law and historical records. Art Valdez, a former undersecretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications and organizer of the first Philippine Expedition Team to climb Mt. Everest, is rekindling Filipinos’ spirit to rediscover their nation’s maritime skills and culture to prevent being swayed by false claims and help the government assert Philippine sovereignty on the disputed sea.

Jose, K. (2024, August 5). Explorer extraordinaire Art Valdez asserts WPS sovereignty through the balangay. Daily Tribune, p. B12.