President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the Philippines’ territorial integrity, declaring that the country will never back down in defending its sovereignty. Speaking at the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas campaign rally in Mandaluyong City on Friday, May 9, Marcos delivered a powerful message emphasizing the nation’s unwavering stance.
“Kung pag-uusapan natin ang pagtatanggol sa ating karapatan, hayaan ninyong sabihin ko ito nang buong-buo: Kailanman, hindi tayo uurong sa pagtatanggol sa teritoryo ng Pilipinas,” Marcos declared, underscoring that the Philippines’ resolve is unshakeable.
The President stressed that defending the country’s rights is an inherent duty of a free and sovereign state. “Bilang isang malayang bansa, dapat nating panindigan ang ating mga karapatan… Maliwanag na maliwanag na ang Pilipino lamang ang dapat na makinabang sa teritoryo ng Pilipinas at ‘yan po ay ipaglalaban po natin,” he added.
While making it clear that the Philippines does not seek conflict, Marcos emphasized the government’s responsibility to protect the nation, saying, “Ipagtatanggol namin ang teritoryo ng Pilipinas, ang soberanya ng Pilipinas, ang karapatan ng Pilipino.”
The President’s statements come amid ongoing regional tensions, where the Philippines has continued to assert its territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea.
Aside from national security, Marcos also used the rally to promote the 11 senatorial candidates of the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas slate. He further urged local leaders to uphold the nation’s legacy of bravery by advocating for inclusive governance and sustainable development.
Highlighting his administration’s priorities, Marcos mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance social services, infrastructure, and digitalization—initiatives he believes are essential to building a stronger and more resilient Philippines.
