Manila, July 6 -- The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday joined the country in commencing the observance of the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Award, slated on July 12, by taking part in a nationwide flag-raising ceremony.

In a statement, the DND said it recognized the collaborative and patriotic efforts of Filipinos, from fisherfolk to public servants, in upholding and defending the sovereign rights of the country in the West Philippines Sea (WPS) through the rule of law.

Attended by officials and employees of the DND and its bureaus, the kick-off activity, which took place in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, affirmed the agency's commitment in honoring the legal triumph of the country in upholding its maritime...