In a significant move to heighten awareness and promote discussions on maritime security, the Sorsogon State University (SorSU) took part in the West Philippine Sea Symposium, organized by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the National Youth Commission (NYC). The event, held on March 24, 2025, at the SorSU Audio-Visual Hall, Sorsogon City Campus, was preceded by a press conference.
The symposium officially commenced with welcome remarks from Prof. Teresa Haide R. Belgica (Acting Dean, SorSU-CoHaS), who stood in for Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, Sorsogon City Campus). USec. Katherine Chloe S. De Castro (Director General, Philippine Information Agency) delivered the opening message, while Dr. Ana-Liza S. Macatangay (OIC/Deputy Regional Head, PIA Bicol) acknowledged the participants. The event was also graced by the presence of SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus.
Key presentations included Ms. Sally A. Altea’s (Government Information Center Coordinator, PIA Albay) talk on Media Information Literacy: Navigating the Digital Age with Awareness and Critical Thinking and Ms. Nydia Paladan-Delfin’s (Area Officer, National Youth Commission, Region V) presentation on the National Youth Commission.
Moreover, Commodore Jay Tarriela (Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Philippine Coast Guard), explained the Philippine’s stance on the West Philippine Sea. He underscored the country’s commitment to upholding its sovereignty over the area and the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations with other nations to counter any attempts to undermine the Philippines’ territorial claims in the region.
The symposium included an interactive open forum and concluded with a synthesis and closing remarks from Mr. Ramil Marianito (Information Officer V, PIA ROV). The event highlighted the importance of informed and active participation in safeguarding national sovereignty. (SorSU PIO)
