The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) spearheaded a mural painting activity in Subic to help deepen public understanding of the historical, environmental, and economic importance of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Held on November 18–19 in Barangay Calapacuan, the initiative was organized in partnership with the AFP Northern Luzon Command, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, various regional line agencies, and the municipal government of Subic. The activity forms part of the ongoing observance of Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month, celebrated in September.
NICA Regional Director Ulysses Untalan said the murals aim to encourage patriotism and public engagement on maritime issues. He described the effort as “a vibrant, community-driven platform for raising awareness and reinforcing public support for the Philippines’ sovereign rights in the WPS.”
The artworks were created by winners of a poster-making contest held in July at SM Clark during the WPS Victory Day celebration—two student artists from Tarlac National High School and a professional engineer from Nueva Ecija.
Untalan noted that the activity supports national efforts to educate communities on the country’s maritime entitlements under international law, particularly within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone. The murals, which depict maritime heritage, resource protection, and the struggles of coastal communities, serve as visual reminders of what is at stake in the WPS.
The participation of young artists, he added, highlights the importance of involving the next generation in safeguarding national interests and sustaining public advocacy.
