Kanlungan at Kasarinlan: An Arts and Science Exhibit on the West Philippine Sea (Kanlungan at Kasarinlan), recently opened at the UP Diliman (UPD) Marine Science Institute (MSI) Marine Biodiversity Resources and Information System (MBRIS) building.

The exhibit showcased the West Philippine Sea’s (WPS) rich marine biodiversity, the fight of every Filipino for its sovereign rights, the country’s efforts in resolving conflicts through peaceful resolutions, and the collective efforts in protecting the country’s natural heritage.

Kanlungan at Kasarinlan was organized by the MSI in collaboration with the UPD Bulwagan ng Dangal, Daluyong Artists Network Center Inc., and the RE-INVEST WPS Program which is funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development.

In her welcome remarks, MSI Director Laura David underscored the importance of understanding and recognizing the value of WPS.

“We need to know what is there, what makes it work—in order to better manage how we continue to benefit from our environment. That’s why we are here today, to bring attention and focus on the West Philippine Sea, its diversity, its beauty,” David said.

Meanwhile, UPD Chancellor Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, in his message, provided historical background of the WPS. He mentioned that before the area was called the WPS, and even before it was called the South China Sea, the area was simply referred to, in nautical maps, as dangerous grounds.

“It was simply a reminder to navigators, especially those who were voyaging with large seagoing vessels to avoid the area because of the so many rock formations and coral reefs that will surely damage their boats.”

Vistan also provided some legal perspectives on the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling. According to Vistan, legally it was a victory for the Philippines. He then explained that the award also stated that many of the rock formations in the area cannot be owned by anyone. He, however, urged everyone present at the exhibit to exert all efforts in fulfilling the responsibilities as stewards of the disputed area.

“[With] the Philippines being the most closest and the one who has most access to the WPS, atin pong responsilidad na pangalagaan ang WPS bilang kanlungan ng mga corals, mga naninirahan, at mga dumadaan na marine organisms,” Vistan said.

Kanlungan at Kasarinlan features maps (including the 1734 Murillo Velarde Map) and materials of MSI’s research expeditions to the WPS through the years, some UPD art collections depicting Filipino’s struggle for sovereignty, and contemporary artworks from Studio Roman, William Matawaran, Joanna Aglibot, and from the Daluyong Artists Network Center Inc.

The exhibit will run until Dec. 13. It is free and open to the public from Monday to Saturday.