In celebration of the 7th anniversary of the Philippine Rise, the Philippines, represented by the Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL), upholds its sovereignty over its maritime domain, emphasizing its commitment to protecting territorial integrity as recognized by international bodies like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.

The commemoration commenced with a Send-Off Ceremony for FF150 on July 9, 2024, at PPIC Pier 2, Poro Point, SFCLU, presided over by Commodore Edward Ike M De Sagon of the Philippine Navy, Commander of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon. In his address, Commodore De Sagon underscored that the activity aims to sustain marine conservation and protection of the Philippine Rise, reaffirming sovereign rights and raising awareness of its strategic value. He further highlighted the importance of marine conservation efforts in safeguarding the diverse marine life and ecosystems of the Philippine Rise for present and future generations. This event also commemorates the renaming of Benham Rise to Philippine Rise, signifying a pivotal historical moment and illustrating the government's commitment to upholding territorial claims and conserving the natural heritage.

The event was also presented by LTGEN FERLYN G BUCA PAF, Commander of the Northern Luzon Command (COMNOLCOM), as the guest of honor and speaker, adding significance to the commemoration and emphasize the Chief of Staff Command Guidance to strengthen our posture for territorial defense operations, to maintain an effective-presence in the Philippine waters, and that the external threat now has become more pronounced, has become more worrisome, and that is why we have to prepare. The next day, FF150 conducted a Flag Raising Ceremony on the Philippine Rise, symbolizing national pride, unity, and sovereignty.

This commemoration not only raises awareness of the strategic value of the Philippine Rise but also honors its significance to the Filipino people, reaffirming the country's rich maritime history.

PUBLISHED BY:    Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) LT ZACHARY ASTROLOGO SINSUAN O‑16350 PN NFNL Public Affairs Officer