MANILA — A decade after the landmark arbitral ruling affirmed the Philippines’ maritime entitlements in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. called on all Filipinos to share in the defense of the country’s sovereignty and territory, stressing that the responsibility cannot rest on the government alone.
Marcos said protecting the nation requires not only the efforts of state institutions but also an informed and engaged citizenry capable of defending Philippine interests against external pressure and misinformation.
The President recognized Filipino fisherfolk, the Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for their contributions to safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.
He said the Philippines would continue asserting its sovereign rights through peaceful and legal means while remaining guided by national principles and international law.
Marcos stressed that Filipinos must understand the country’s history and maritime rights and participate in efforts to protect national interests.
His call comes as the Philippines marks in 2026 the 10th anniversary of the 2016 arbitral award that upheld the country’s maritime entitlements under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The ruling rejected the legal basis for China’s sweeping historic-rights claims over much of the South China Sea and affirmed several Philippine maritime rights under UNCLOS.
Marcos also recalled his recent State of the Nation Address, where he stressed that the government has a responsibility to safeguard national interests, uphold the rule of law and protect resources on which Filipino communities depend.
The President said educating young Filipinos about the country’s maritime rights and claims must be given priority, emphasizing the importance of building awareness among future generations about Philippine sovereignty.
He also urged the public to help counter misinformation and promote responsible discussions, particularly on digital platforms where competing narratives on maritime issues have proliferated.
Marcos called for continued support for Filipino fishermen, whose livelihood and presence in Philippine waters underscore the country’s enduring connection to its maritime territory.
He likewise emphasized the need to maintain public confidence in government institutions through transparency, accountability and competent public service.
According to Marcos, Filipinos may express patriotism in different ways, but their efforts should ultimately advance the same objectives — protecting the country, serving its people and defending Philippine sovereignty.
He urged citizens to help build a nation capable of withstanding external pressures, strengthening its institutions and preserving its sovereignty for future generations./PN
