July 22, 2024

Conveying the Administration’s commitment to de-escalate tensions in contested areas without compromising the country’s position and principles, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stood firm that the Philippines will not yield and waver when it comes to the West Philippine Sea.

“Ang West Philippine Sea ay hindi kathang-isip natin lamang. Ito ay atin. At ito ay mananatiling atin hangga’t nag-aalab ang diwa ng ating minamahal na bansang Pilipinas,” he expressed in his 3rd State of the Nation Address (SONA) held on July 22, 2024.

Underscoring that the nation has become more conscious and strategic in heightening aerial and maritime domain awareness, the Chief Executive reaffirmed the government’s relentless effort to strengthen the country’s defensive posture, both through developing self-reliance and through partnerships with like-minded countries.

“Laws on our Maritime Zones and Archipelagic Sea Lanes will make sure that this intergenerational mandate — this duty — will firmly take root in the hearts and minds of all our people,” the Chief Executive said.

He further expressed gratitude to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the fishing communities for their sacrifices in the West Philippine Sea.

“Tanggapin ninyo ang taos-pusong pasasalamat ng buong bansa, dahil sa inyong ginagawang pagmamatyag at sakripisyo,” President Marcos Jr. said.

* * *