President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has been recognized by the Lowy Institute of Australia as “one of the most interesting, influential, and closely-watched leaders” in Southeast Asia. This acknowledgment came from Dr. Michael Fullilove, the Executive Director of the Lowy Institute, following President Marcos’s compelling speech to the Australian Parliament last week.
Dr. Fullilove highlighted President Marcos’s significant impact on the region since his election in 2022. “President Marcos has emerged as a standout leader, demonstrating a dynamic approach to governance and regional diplomacy,” he remarked during an event at the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne.
The Lowy Institute praised President Marcos for his staunch stance on the West Philippine Sea dispute. In his address, Marcos affirmed his commitment to defending Philippine sovereignty without yielding any territory or maritime jurisdiction. He detailed his administration’s efforts to enhance the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces to ensure the protection and peaceful exploration of the nation’s natural resources.
President Marcos also spoke on the importance of a rules-based international order for the prosperity and survival of countries in the Indo-Pacific amid global power tensions.