THE Philippines will neither yield nor waver in asserting its rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Monday.
“In the face of challenges to our territorial sovereignty, we will assert our rights and interests in the same fair and pacific way that we have always done. Proper diplomatic channels and mechanisms under the rules-based international order remain the only acceptable means of settling disputes,” the Chief Executive said in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa.
Marcos also emphasized that peace and community-building are always the Philippines’ way, especially since the country would be the chair and host of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.
He also stressed the Philippines would find ways to de-escalate tensions in contested areas with other claimant nations without compromising the country’s position and principles.
With more Filipinos realizing the need to secure and defend its vast territories, Marcos said the government would continue beefing up its defenses and engage with like-minded states to improve its security.
“We are now more conscious as a people and strategic in heightening our aerial and maritime domain awareness. We are continuing to strengthen our defense posture, both through developing self-reliance and through partnerships with like-minded states,” he noted.
The WPS is a real part of the country’s patrimony, the President stressed.
“Ito ay atin. At ito ay mananatiling atin, hangga’t nag-aalab ang diwa ng ating mahal na bansang Pilipinas. Pagtitibayin at palalaguin natin ang kamalayan at kaalaman ng buong bansa, at titiyaking maipapasa natin ito sa ating kabataan at ating susunod na mga salinlahi.,” he added.
Marcos said Philippine laws on its maritime zones and archipelagic sea lanes would make sure that this intergenerational mandate would take root in the hearts and minds of our people.
In this regard, the President expressed his thanks, along with those of the nation, to the Armed Forces, the Coast Guard, and Filipino fisherfolks who continue to go about their lawful mandate in the WPS.
He added that this gratitude was only fitting for the sacrifices they made while standing guard over this vital waterway.
