In the face of tension in the region, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated on Tuesday that his administration remains steadfast in protecting the country’s territories and maritime zones, notably the West Philippine Sea.

“We stand firm. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect against our sovereignty,” the President said in his speech during the 127th Philippine Navy (PN) anniversary celebration in Subic, Zambales.

The Commander-in-Chief issued a strong message against foreign encroachment and emphasized that the country will continue to uphold its maritime entitlements following international law.

“We will continue to safeguard our maritime zones and exercise our maritime entitlements, in accordance with international law,” President Marcos said. “Wala tayong isusuko, wala tayong papabayaan.”

“We reaffirm our commitment to being a responsible member of the international community, engaging in all matters diplomatically and upholding the established principles under international law,” the President added.

The Philippines’ commitment is reflected in the proactive and sustained engagement in international defense and security efforts, the President said, citing the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ participation in various exercises such as the Balikatan, Sama Sama, Rim of the Pacific, and Multilateral Naval Exercise Kakadu.

President Marcos said the Philippines also conducted staff-to-staff talks with other countries and hosted 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,” the President said. | PND