PCG to WPS caravan: Don’t bring children, elderly

MANILA, Philippines — With safety in mind, the Philippine Coast Guard is advising Atin Ito Coalition – organizer of the Christmas caravan to the West Philippine Sea – not to bring children and the elderly in their journey, saying the WPS journey is “not a walk in the park.”

Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, PCG commandant, said they are communicating with the group about its Dec. 10 departure from El Nido in Palawan, although the latter still has not provided information on the exact number of boats to be used and the people who would be joining the caravan.

“It is still a work in progress. It seems many people want to join, but we still do not have the list,” Gavan said.

Citing the safety of civilians on board the boats, Gavan said the PCG “discourages (children and the elderly people from joining because) it is not a walk in the park. They can take the risk but we would not encourage them.”

“They have considered the best time (to travel) but even the ‘best time’ would still not be good... The sea conditions would not be good… We are not expecting very good weather,” he added.

Earlier reports said the organizers are planning to use 40 boats, including a mother ship, and visit Patag Island, Lawak Island and Pag-asa Island.

The National Security Council reportedly allowed the civilian convoy to sail only in the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal, but not directly to the BRP Sierra Madre, as a safety precaution. But it has also warned them against traveling to the Ayungin Shoal because of the reported frequent high tensions between the China Coast Guard and PCG in the area.

The House of Representatives adopted Wednesday night House Resolution 1494 condemning China’s “illegal actions” in the WPS and urging the government to uphold and defend sovereign rights over the nation’s EEZ.

HR 1494 consolidates six resolutions with the same topic: HRs 781, 823, 1169, 1201, 1204 and 1293. It was introduced by House committee on West Philippine Sea chairman Rep. Neptali Gonzales II (Mandaluyong), along with Reps. Rufus Rodriguez (Cagayan de Oro City), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela), Bro. Eddie Villanueva (CIBAC), Brian Yamsuan (Bicol Saro) and Wowo Fortes (Sorsogon), among others.

“We are committed