President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, May 20, reaffirmed the Philippines’ firm stance on defending its sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
“We stand firm. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect against our sovereignty,” Marcos declared during the Philippine Navy’s 127th anniversary celebration in Subic, Zambales.
The country, he added, will continue to protect its maritime zones and uphold its rights under international law.
“We will continue to safeguard our maritime zones and exercise our maritime entitlements, in accordance with international law. Wala tayong isusuko, wala tayong papabayaan,” according to him.
Marcos Jr. noted the importance of diplomacy, saying the Philippines remains a responsible member of the international community, committed to peaceful engagement and legal principles.
The President highlighted the country’s active role in regional security through joint military exercises such as Balikatan, Sama Sama, Rim of the Pacific, and Kakadu. He also cited recent defense dialogues and the hosting of the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security.
“All of these are aligned with our broader efforts to foster cooperation and to maintain peace—both within our borders and across the region,” he concluded.IMT
