The Department of National Defense (DND) has thrown its weight behind efforts to bring the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Mural Festival to communities throughout the Philippines, with Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. pledging logistical support at the event's Grand Finale in Manila.
At a glance
- Event: WPS Mural Festival Grand Finale and Awarding Ceremony
- Date and place: November 12, 2026, National Museum of Natural History, Manila
- Guest of Honor: DND Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr.
- Entries: more than 200 from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao
- Source: Department of National Defense press release
Teodoro delivered the commitment on November 12, 2026, as Guest of Honor and keynote speaker at the Grand Finale and Awarding Ceremony, held at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila.
DND to Provide Logistical Backing for Expansion
Addressing artists, cultural advocates, and government officials at the ceremony, Teodoro said the DND was prepared to provide the means and logistical support needed to bring the festival's message to different parts of the country. "This deserves to be experienced by each and every Filipino," he said, according to a DND press release dated November 12, 2026.
He pledged to collaborate with artists, organizers, and stakeholders to make the festival reachable to communities stretching "from Aparri to Jolo and Batanes".
Secretary Praises Works for Capturing National Resilience
Teodoro commended the participating artists for capturing the resilience, assertiveness and dignity of the Filipino people. "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.
The DND said Teodoro described the festival as a powerful expression of the country's identity and a reminder of why Filipinos must assert their rights. He also stressed the importance of preserving the freedom to express one's identity without fear of censorship or imprisonment.
According to the DND, Teodoro noted that the murals, musical performances, and video presentations on display reflected the country's distinct character, and praised the festival for presenting the country's realities through a vibrant, positive perspective that inspires action rather than defeatism or surrender.
Over 200 Entries Submitted from All Three Major Island Groups
The DND press release reported that the competition drew more than 200 entries from artists, collectives, students, and community groups representing 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 Join Grand Finale
The ceremony brought together a wide range of cultural and government figures. The DND identified those in attendance as National Artists Imelda Cajipe-Endaya and Virgilio Almario, and retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio T. Carpio.
Also present 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, alongside other artists, advocates, and officials.
Teodoro Closes with Thanks to Performers and Organizers
In his closing remarks, Teodoro thanked artists, performers, and organizers for honoring the sacrifices of those who defend the country, the DND press release said.
Photos: DND
Source: Department of National Defense