The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has awarded ten provincial governments the title of champions for their support of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) cause. The recognition was presented at the Bayanihan Para sa Kanlurang Dagat ng Pilipinas 2026 summit in Lingayen, Pangasinan. Honored provinces include Palawan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro. This initiative highlights the importance of local government units in bolstering national claims and protecting the country’s maritime interests. The DILG’s acknowledgment underscores the collaborative efforts between the national government and provincial administrations. The awards recognize the provinces’ active participation in initiatives defending the WPS. Further details regarding the specific criteria for selection were not immediately available.