Philippine Embassy in Islamabad Marks Maritime Awareness Month with Kayaking Activity at Rawal Lake
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: The Embassy of the Philippines in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Office of the Philippine Defense and Armed Forces Attaché (OPhilDAFA) and the Office of the Philippine Attaché (OPA), organized a kayaking activity at Rawal Lake on September 12 as part of its month-long observance of Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo) 2026.
The early morning activity brought together members of the Philippine One Country Team for a combination of wellness, fellowship and reflection on the importance of the country’s maritime heritage and the vital role of waterways.
The activity was held in coordination with the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam. H.E. Colonel (R) Pengiran Haji Kamal Bashah joined the Philippine team, introduced participants to kayaking and generously provided his own equipment for the activity.
Beyond its recreational aspect, the event highlighted the broader significance of bodies of water, which serve as vital links supporting transportation, trade, livelihoods, biodiversity, recreation and cultural exchange. Participants emphasized that preserving these benefits requires collective efforts to protect and responsibly manage water resources.
The activity reflected the theme of this year’s MANAMo observance, “Karapatan sa Karagatan, Sama-sama nating Alagaan,” which underscores the importance of protecting legitimate maritime rights under international law while promoting stewardship, cooperation and shared responsibility for the seas.
The programme concluded with a breakfast fellowship and parlor games, providing an opportunity to strengthen camaraderie and team spirit among members of the Philippine One Country Team.
The Philippine Embassy in Islamabad said it would continue its MANAMo activities throughout September, reaffirming the principle that maritime rights and maritime responsibility go hand in hand.
The observance seeks to promote greater awareness of the importance of the Philippines as a maritime and archipelagic nation and encourage collective responsibility for protecting and sustainably managing marine and water resources.
