A free concert that aims to support the logistical needs of West Philippine Sea frontliners is set to take place at the University of the Philippines Diliman Bahay ng Alumni.
Atin Ito! A Christmas Donation Drive Concert For The West Philippine Sea Frontliners will happen at 7:30 p.m. on November 29.
The lineup of performers will include Ebe Dancel, Leanne and Naara, Bayang Barrios at ang Naliyagan, Noel Cabangon, 6cyclemind, Gracenote, Autotelic, Gab Cabangon, Hey June, and Ena Mori.
Attendees are expected to bring gifts and goods in exchange for tickets. These are whatever they can afford from simple canned goods to personal objects that can be used for the daily needs of frontliners.
While monetary donations will not be accepted, the organizers have put together a “donation wishlist” consisting of non-monetary provisions like canned goods (avoid canned fish food), noodles, water, long-sleeved shirts, slippers, bucket hats, toiletries, flashlights, medical supplies like over-the-counter medications, antibiotic ointment, and alcohol.
Stakeholders will also accept fishing gear and gadgets. Dropoff points can be found at Quezon City’s Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) and Center For Agrarian Reform Empowerment (CARET). The detailed guide for donations as well as dropoff points can be found here.
“Magpa-Pasko na! Gawin nating makahulugan ang ating Pasko. Tara na at magbigay ng Aguinaldo sa mga frontliners ng West Philippine Sea [It’s almost Christmas! Let’s make our Christmas meaningful. Join us in donating to our frontliners at the West Philippine Sea],” Noel Cabangon posted.
Atin Ito is a citizen-led campaign to honor West Philippine Sea fisherfolk and frontliners. According to organizers, “Filipino fisherfolks who rely on the resources in the area have long experienced harassment from China. Chinese sea vessels and its maritime militia often violate Philippine territorial waters, intimidating and obstructing Filipino fishing boats from reaching traditional fishing sites. Filipino fisherfolks claim that Chinese ships have threatened them, intimidated them, and even taken their catch and fishing gear.”