NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
'Kalayaan 16' Honored After China Imposes Travel Ban On Local Officials
Photo credit: Sangguniang Bayan ng Kalayaan
The Akbayan Partylist held a recognition ceremony in Quezon City to honor the so-called Kalayaan 16—local officials from the Municipality of Kalayaan who were recently barred from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau following tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Among those present were Vice Mayor Maurice Phillip Alexis Albayda, Councilor Francis Polizon, and municipal staff members who have been outspoken in asserting Philippine sovereignty over the Kalayaan Island Group.
The tribute was organized days after the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines announced a travel ban on the 16 officials in response to Kalayaan’s earlier move declaring China’s ambassador persona non grata. Akbayan leaders called the ban a badge of honor, saying it highlights the officials’ dedication to defending the country’s maritime rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“It’s Not Just About Us”
During the ceremony, Albayda said the recognition extends beyond the named officials, stressing that the real frontline defenders are the residents and workers stationed across the Kalayaan Island Group. He emphasized that their continued presence is a crucial assertion of Philippine sovereignty.
Rising Tensions Fuel Local Pushback
The Chinese travel ban followed months of heightened confrontations at sea, with Philippine vessels reporting dangerous maneuvers and aggressive actions by the China Coast Guard. Local Kalayaan officials have been vocal in condemning these incidents, prompting greater national support for their position.
Analysts say the recognition from Akbayan and allied civic groups sends a symbolic message that foreign pressure will not deter local leaders from standing firm on the country’s maritime claims.
A Community Standing Its Ground
The tribute reflects broader public backing for officials and communities defending the West Philippine Sea. Civic organizations, fisherfolk groups, and local governments in Palawan have amplified calls in recent weeks for stronger protection of Philippine waters.
By honoring the Kalayaan 16, organizers reaffirmed a central message: those who safeguard the nation’s dignity and sovereignty will not stand alone.
Among those present were Vice Mayor Maurice Phillip Alexis Albayda, Councilor Francis Polizon, and municipal staff members who have been outspoken in asserting Philippine sovereignty over the Kalayaan Island Group.
The tribute was organized days after the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines announced a travel ban on the 16 officials in response to Kalayaan’s earlier move declaring China’s ambassador persona non grata. Akbayan leaders called the ban a badge of honor, saying it highlights the officials’ dedication to defending the country’s maritime rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“It’s Not Just About Us”
During the ceremony, Albayda said the recognition extends beyond the named officials, stressing that the real frontline defenders are the residents and workers stationed across the Kalayaan Island Group. He emphasized that their continued presence is a crucial assertion of Philippine sovereignty.
Rising Tensions Fuel Local Pushback
The Chinese travel ban followed months of heightened confrontations at sea, with Philippine vessels reporting dangerous maneuvers and aggressive actions by the China Coast Guard. Local Kalayaan officials have been vocal in condemning these incidents, prompting greater national support for their position.
Analysts say the recognition from Akbayan and allied civic groups sends a symbolic message that foreign pressure will not deter local leaders from standing firm on the country’s maritime claims.
A Community Standing Its Ground
The tribute reflects broader public backing for officials and communities defending the West Philippine Sea. Civic organizations, fisherfolk groups, and local governments in Palawan have amplified calls in recent weeks for stronger protection of Philippine waters.
By honoring the Kalayaan 16, organizers reaffirmed a central message: those who safeguard the nation’s dignity and sovereignty will not stand alone.
Feb 18, 2026
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