Ceremonial Hall, Malacañan Palace
September 26, 2024

“Back then, our democracy was fragile — an infant in the cradle of nationhood — demanding that we build sturdier foundations for governance… PHILCONSA’s role as the ‘people’s conscience’ — in the words of Dr. Salvador Araneta — was vital in propagating and preserving it from insidious interests,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conveyed as he led the 63rd Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Constitution Association (PHILCONSA) at the Ceremonial Hall in Malacañan Palace.

In his speech, the President highlighted the Association’s commitment to safeguarding democracy for the past 63 years, describing it as a bold task that only those who understood the Constitution as a living embodiment of Filipino values, could fulfill. Despite global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the Philippines has remained a bastion of resilience, peace and stability.

“Closer to home, rising maritime tensions in the West Philippine Sea have raised fears of greater conflict. Yet, we continue to assert our sovereignty and jurisdiction to protect the integrity of our national territory,” he added, emphasizing that the Administration will continue to engage in regular consultations and dialogue with all parties to manage the situation in the West Philippine Sea while developing more avenues for communication and cooperation.

Additionally, the Chief Executive shared that Congress is working on the passage of several legislations, including the Maritime Zones Bill which clarifies the geographical extent of the country’s maritime domain, as well as the Archipelagic Sea Lanes (ASLs) Bill that seeks to establish ASLs in the archipelagic waters and the adjacent territorial sea.

He likewise reiterated that the national government will continue to provide adequate social services, ensure employment opportunities and improve the quality of life of every Filipino to achieve a prosperous nation.

“But while our economy flourishes, let us remember the fundamental principle that underpins everything — our Constitution… It promotes our fundamental right to life, liberty [and] property. It ensures our right to due process and equal protection, our freedom of speech and religion, our right to privacy, among others,” he stated.

The President enjoined all the government officials and lawmakers to commit themselves and take decisive actions for the unfinished work of democracy for ‘Bagong Pilipinas.’

“Let us create a nation where the rule of law reigns supreme, where justice is not selective, and where every Filipino enjoys the freedoms, rights and dignity they are entitled to… Let us remember that the Constitution is our guiding light towards a just, prosperous and resilient Philippines,” President Marcos Jr. ended in his message.

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