MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said he has directed the Philippine Navy (PN) to further strengthen its forces amid geopolitical challenges and emerging maritime security threats.
Speaking during the celebration of the PN’s 128th anniversary, Marcos also asserted that the Philippines “will never be intimidated” in protecting its sovereignty.
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“Strengthening the Philippine Navy’s capabilities remains essential to protecting our interests in the West Philippine Sea in light of the broader realities of our time. Rapid economic and political developments in the twenty-first century have reshaped global growth and placed the Indo-Pacific region at the geopolitical and economic center of gravity,” Marcos said, lamenting how the seas surrounding the country have become “arenas of competition and of conflict.”
He stressed that the country’s maritime defense posture must remain resilient amid evolving geopolitical issues.
“In this environment, a credible Philippine Navy is indispensable to regional peace. Thus, I have directed the Philippine Navy to further strengthen its capabilities. The DND-AFP [Department of National Defense-Armed Forces of the Philippines] was also tasked to further expand and deepen partnerships, exchanges, and interactions with allies and friendly forces,” he said.
During the event, Marcos led the commissioning of the new offshore patrol vessel BRP Rajah Lakandula.
Named after Rajah Lakandula, one of the leaders of pre-colonial Manila, the vessel is an addition to the PN’s fleet that enhances its operational readiness and maritime security capabilities.
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“Truly, this is a pivotal step towards realizing the Navy’s vision of a modern and self-reliant force. This vessel enhances our capacity to safeguard our resources and assert our sovereignty,” he said.
“To the crew of this ship, may you sail her with pride and let the world know that the Filipino spirit will never be intimidated,” Marcos continued.
Marcos also commended Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao for activating its disaster response mechanisms following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck near Maasim, Sarangani, on Monday. /gsg
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