President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday lauded the Philippine Navy’s role in protecting the country’s maritime entitlements and reaffirmed the government’s strong stance on national sovereignty “amid the ongoing tension” in the region.

Speaking at the Navy’s 127th founding anniversary celebration, Marcos commended Filipino sailors for their unwavering dedication to defending the nation.

"The Navy personnel serve as peacekeepers both in land and in sea — remaining as steadfast as ever in upholding our nation’s maritime entitlements with dignity and with courage," he said.

Marcos emphasized the readiness of the naval force and made it clear that the Philippines will not tolerate any encroachment or disrespect to its sovereignty.

"We stand firm. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect against our sovereignty," he stated.

The President stressed that the country will continue asserting its rightful claims in maritime zones, in full accordance with international law.

"We will continue to safeguard our maritime zones and exercise our maritime entitlements, in accordance with international law," he said.
"Wala tayong isusuko, wala tayong papabayaan," he added.

(We will not surrender anything, and we will not neglect anything.)

Marcos also reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to responsible global conduct.

"We reaffirm our commitment to being a responsible member of the international community, engaging in all matters diplomatically and upholding the established principles under international law," he said.
"This obligation is reflected in our proactive and sustained engagement in international defense and security efforts."

He noted the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ active participation in multinational military exercises, including Balikatan, Sama Sama, Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), and Multilateral Naval Exercise Kakadu. The country also held bilateral staff talks and hosted the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security.

“All of these are aligned with our broader efforts to foster cooperation and to maintain peace, both within our borders and across the region,” Marcos said.

He also acknowledged the Navy’s vital role in humanitarian aid and disaster response, citing their prompt deployment to rescue distressed vessels and assist in emergencies.

"We celebrate an enduring legacy of an institution, built by the fortitude of its men and women, whose one-hundred-year and more history profoundly shaped the destiny of our nation,” he said.