President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has approved the country’s comprehensive security guide, “designed to shape a safer, more secure, more prosperous, and united country,” the National Security Council (NSC) said Sunday.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año recently presented to Marcos the country’s National Security Strategy (NSS) 2024, which was adopted under the five-year Executive Order 37, also known as the National Security Policy (NSP) 2023-2028.

The NSP 2023-2028 provides the guidelines for addressing the country’s national security needs and concerns over the next five years, highlighting the crucial connection between security and development.

Marcos’ approval of the NSS came amid the continuing territorial dispute between the Philippines and China, with the latter engaging in aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

China claims nearly the entire South China Sea, which overlaps the WPS. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that Beijing’s claim was without basis, while backing Manila’s right to its exclusive economic zone in the WPS.

Chinese coast guard, navy, and militia vessels had, in the past, water-cannoned, rammed, or trained military-grade lasers on patrolling Philippine vessels in the WPS, prompting Manila to send Beijing dozens of diplomatic protests.

The NSS lays out 53 strategic directions and 393 actionable steps that will secure the nation’s sovereignty, promote the welfare of every citizen, and strengthen the bonds of peace, harmony and solidarity.

“At its core, the NSS is about building a country where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and communities can feel safe and supported,” Año explained.

He noted that the NSS 2024 focuses on four key areas, including human capital development, institution building, efficient use of instruments of national power such as diplomacy and defense, and sustainable growth through economic resilience and legislative support.

In approving the NSS 2024, Marcos emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach in crafting security plans, highlighting how it reflects the shared vision and efforts of various sectors to sustain peace and unity in the country.

Optimistic

Marcos expressed optimism that the NSS document would properly guide the government’s instrumentalities in addressing complex challenges while “ensuring that all Filipinos benefit from the progress it brings.”

Marcos pressed the need to encourage active participation from all stakeholders to achieve the nation’s goals.

Further, Año said the NSS is crucial in addressing both local and global challenges. He explained that the strategy ensures the country’s readiness to tackle evolving threats, from territorial disputes to economic pressures, while emphasizing the welfare of every Filipino.

“This is not just about protecting borders; it’s about safeguarding the dreams and aspirations of every Filipino family. The NSS gives us a clear path to build a nation that is resilient, united, and self-reliant,” Año said, adding that one of the key strengths of the NSS is focusing on collaboration.

Also, Año said the strategy is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan and emphasizes a whole-of-nation approach, ensuring that all sectors — from government agencies to private organizations and local communities — play an active role in achieving national security.

“This shared responsibility reflects the collective vision of stakeholders who contributed to the plan, making it a product of unity and cooperation,” he said.

Leveraging tech

The NSS also highlights actionable priorities such as investing in education and health, enhancing governance, and leveraging technology to strengthen national defense.

It aims to protect critical industries, support economic growth, and uphold the Philippines’ sovereignty while creating opportunities for future generations.

With the implementation of the NSS and NSP 2023-2028, Año said the Philippines is moving closer to achieving its goals of a secure and prosperous society.

“The National Security Strategy represents a call to action for the entire nation. By working together, the Philippines can overcome challenges, safeguard its sovereignty, and create a brighter future for all,” he said.