The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) strengthened the role of local government units (LGUs) in safeguarding the West Philippine Sea (WPS) by helping coastal provinces establish permanent local governance mechanisms to support marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, and the country's maritime interests. The initiative resulted in institutional reforms at the local level. Palawan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Bataan have enacted ordinances creating their respective West Philippine Sea Councils, while Zambales established its council through a resolution and Occidental Mindoro through an executive order.

Baroña, F. J. (2026, July 9). LGUs' role in protecting WPS bolstered. The Manila Times, p. A3.