Riders express support, bring ‘care packs’ for WPS defenders

SUPPORT FOR TROOPS. Riders show their support for the Philippine Navy personnel tasked to defend the West Philippine Sea (WPS) at the Naval Operating Base Subic in Zambales on Sunday (Aug. 25, 2024). (Photo: 1st Civil Relations Group, CRS AFP/Facebook)

By Priam Nepomuceno, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Some 500 motorcycle riders on Sunday showed their support for military personnel tasked to defend the West Philippine Sea (WPS) through a “ride for a cause”.

The riders motored their way from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City to Naval Operating Base Subic, Zambales during the “Ride for the West Philippine Sea” (Our Sea, Our Rights, Our Future) organized by the Breakfast Ride Community along with the Civil Relations Service, AFP (CRSAFP).

In a statement Monday, the 1st Civil Relations Group said the event is in time for National Heroes Day observance and is part of the government’s advocacy to enhance awareness among stakeholders of the country’s sovereignty over the WPS “through an assertive transparency strategy.”

This is also to show support to the brave men and women of the Philippine Navy (PN) safeguarding our seas and asserting our rights and sovereignty over the WPS.

Meanwhile, Northern Luzon Command deputy commander, Commodore Karl Decapia, said the “Ride for the West Philippine Sea” is part of the AFP’s transition into territorial defense operations, where the PN is at the forefront.

He also commended the riders for their overwhelming support and for using their passion for riding to express unity and legitimate ownership of the WPS.

“Truth be told, the trials, deceptions, and lies in the incidents of the West Philippine Sea are now being unfolded not only among the Filipino people but also in the international community. And many other nations are now supporting us on this quest,” Decapia added.

The riders also brought “care packages” containing pairs of socks, non-perishable food items, personal care products, and a letter of encouragement which would be delivered to Navy personnel.

Breakfast Ride Community head Raymond Gabriel said these packs were a meaningful way to show their appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of our Navy personnel safeguarding the territorial waters.

After a brief program, the riders were given a shipboard guided tour inside the landing dock BRP Tarlac (LD-601) and missile frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151). The tour ended with a traditional boodle fight at BRP Tarlac’s deck.

After Sunday’s event in Zambales, the second leg of the “Ride for West Philippine Sea” (Our Seas, Our Rights, Our Future) will be held in Palawan.

Participating riders’ groups under Breakfast Ride Community include Soteria Motorcycle Club; Batch 8 Brotherhood 2020; Samahang Batangueñong Karibok; Law Enforcement Riders Association of the Philippines; Widows Sons Masonic Riders Association; Suzuki Big Bikers Club of the Philippines; SOCOM Riders Brotherhood, Inc.; Proud Ninja Calabarzon; Juan Bataan Riders MC; Vstrom Adventure Philippines; PMA Maringal Riders; PNPA Magilas Riders; LERAP; Los Angelenos; Royale Moto Club; Wheeltek Group of Companies; BMW Owners Society of Saferiders; Rev Bombers Big Bike Club; Pilipinas Elite Riders Eagles Club; Versys Riders Club; Moto Chismis; Naked Knights; Pinoy Ninja Club Inc.; Sons of Luzon Pilipinas; Ducati Owners Mabalacat Motorcycle Club; Motoride and High on Great Adventure.

Other participants were private individuals and members of the AFP.