President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed that the Philippines will remain firm and calm in upholding its position on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue.
The President made the statement upon his arrival on Wednesday, October 29, following his attendance at the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from October 26 to 28.
“Magandang araw! I have just attended the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The summit was once again an opportunity to discuss among our fellow ASEAN member states and partners how to navigate our future together amidst the various geopolitical and economic challenges that we face domestically, bilaterally, regionally, and globally,” Marcos began in his arrival statement.
“We discussed significant international issues that emerging challenges that not only impact our people and our nation, but also the entire region, especially the West Philippine Sea (WPS). I reaffirm that the Philippines will continue to remain firm, calm, and resolute in defending our sovereignty, our sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea; in accordance with, of course, international law,” he continued.
Marcos also emphasized the country’s commitment to further strengthen its ties with other nations sharing similar values and aspirations.
“We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with all countries who share our values and our commitment to peace, to stability, and to economic progress,” he said.
During the 28th ASEAN-China Summit, Marcos earlier condemned China’s harassment of Filipinos in connection with the ongoing tensions in the WPS, reiterating the Philippines’ stance on defending its sovereign rights through peaceful and lawful means.