Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. committed the Department of National Defense (DND) to helping bring the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Mural Festival to communities across the Philippines, saying the department could help provide logistical support to reach the rest of the country.
At a glance
- What: Grand Finale and Awarding Ceremony of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Mural Festival
- When and where: November 12, 2026, National Museum of Natural History, Manila
- Who: DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Guest of Honor and keynote speaker
- Pledge: DND to work with artists and organizers to bring the festival to communities nationwide
- Competition: more than 200 entries from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao
- Organizer: WPS (We Protect our Seas) Foundation and partner agencies
Teodoro made the commitment on November 12, 2026, as Guest of Honor and keynote speaker at the festival's Grand Finale and Awarding Ceremony, held at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila.
Teodoro Commits DND Logistical Support
Speaking before artists, cultural advocates, and government officials, Teodoro said the DND could help provide the means and logistical support to carry the festival's message across the archipelago. "This deserves to be experienced by each and every Filipino," he said, according to a DND press release issued November 12, 2026.
He pledged to work with artists, organizers, and stakeholders to make the festival accessible to communities "from Aparri to Jolo and Batanes".
Murals Described as Capturing Filipino Resilience
Teodoro praised the participating artists for the content and tone of their works. "What struck me was how our artists were able to capture vividly resilience, assertiveness, and respect for our dignity as Filipinos in a beautiful way," he said, as quoted in the DND press release.
He described the festival as a powerful expression of national identity and a reminder of why Filipinos must assert their rights. He also highlighted the importance of protecting the freedom to express one's Filipino identity without fear of censorship or imprisonment.
Teodoro said the murals, musical performances, and video presentations showcased the country's unique identity and commended the festival for presenting national realities through a vibrant, positive perspective that he said inspires action rather than defeatism or surrender.
More Than 200 Entries from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao
The DND press release said the awarding ceremony culminated a mural-making competition that drew more than 200 entries from artists, collectives, students, and community groups representing all three major island groups — Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The festival was organized by the WPS (We Protect our Seas) Foundation and partner agencies, with AG Saño serving as WPS Mural Festival Director.
National Artists and Senior Officials Attend Ceremony
The Grand Finale drew a broad cross-section of cultural and government figures. Among those present, according to the DND, were National Artists Imelda Cajipe-Endaya and Virgilio Almario, and retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio T. Carpio.
Also in attendance were Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay T. Tarriela; WPS Foundation President and CEO Dr. Jeffrey Ordaniel; and film director Baby Ruth Villarama, along with other artists, cultural advocates, and officials.
Teodoro Thanks Artists for Honoring Defenders
In closing his remarks, Teodoro thanked the artists, performers, and organizers for honoring the sacrifices of those who protect the country, according to the DND press release.
Photos: DND