Philippine flag flown at Philippine Rise (Talampas ng Pilipinas) marking 8th anniversary of renaming

Philippine flag flown at Philippine Rise (Talampas ng Pilipinas) marking 8th anniversary of renaming

BAGUIO CITY (May 16, 2025) – The Philippine flag is now flying over the Philippine Rise (Talampas ng Pilipinas) as the country's assertion of sovereignty during Friday's 8^th anniversary of the renaming of the Philippine Rise (Talampas ng Pilipinas) from Benham rise.



A series of strategic maritime and commemorative activities, the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) said, ended the anniversary rites Friday, May 16, 2025, with a send-off ceremony of BRP Emilio Jacinto (PS35) at Soiltech Pier, San Fernando City in La Union where the vessel and its crew received a formal inspection and blessing before sailing to the Philippine Rise to serve as the Armed Forces’ representative force in a symbolic and strategic mission, explained NOLCOM chief Lt. Gen. Fernyl G. Buca.

The Philippine Rise, officially renamed from Benham Rise through Executive Order No. 25 is a 13-million-hectare undersea plateau east of Luzon. Rich in marine biodiversity and natural resources, it plays a vital role in national food security and defense strategy.

Buca said the Philippine flag is hoisted over Philippine Rise as “a clear and powerful statement of the country’s unyielding commitment to assert and uphold its maritime entitlements.”

Senior leaders of the Armed Forces and key stakeholders from the civilian maritime sector attended Friday’s send off of BRP Emilio Jacinto as a clear show of solidarity in the national effort to secure the country’s eastern frontier. Their presence underscored a whole-of-nation approach to maritime awareness and defense, Buca stressed.

According to Buca, “the Philippine Rise is not just part of our territory — it is part of our identity.” Friday’s ceremony, he explained, “is not merely a ceremonial departure, but a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to protect what is ours. Your presence out there speaks louder than words—you are the guardians of our seas and the visible force behind our peaceful assertion of sovereign rights.”

Buca urged his men to embody the values of “Matapang, Masipag, Magalang, at Responsible” as they carry out their duties in defense of national interest. “Be Matapang to defend what is ours. Be Masipag in exploring opportunities for research, for resources, and for possible stewardship. Be Magalang in the frontline where your patience and composure will be tested. Finally, be Responsable in your action. Radiate the sense of vigilance, unity, and patriotism. More than anything else, this will converge to secure a better future for generations of Filipinos,” he reiterated.

Spearheaded by the Naval Forces Northern Luzon, the anniversary rites exemplify the Armed Forces’ resolve to assert Philippine sovereignty over the resource-rich maritime area, the NOLCOM said, while vowing to “continue perform its critical mission as a Jointly-Engaged, Sustainment-Maintained, and Readiness-Trained force by conducting regular maritime patrols, surveillance operations, and inter-agency coordination to deter illicit activities and secure national resources.”

This commemoration, Buca reiterated, “strengthens awareness of the Philippine Rise’s strategic importance and reinforces its role in safeguarding national territory, today and for generations to come.”