MANILA, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. warned that the Philippines risks losing its recent security gains in the West Philippine Sea if future leadership interrupts or slows down current momentum in strengthening national defense.
Speaking at a media forum on Saturday, September 26, the defense chief highlighted that territorial defense extends beyond direct maritime encounters, encompassing broader economic, political, and information-related security threats.
Teodoro noted that while a reversal of current gains after the 2028 elections remains a possibility, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken steps to embed key strategies directly within the Armed Forces of the Philippines to ensure long-term continuity.
“Hindi mo naman masasabi na walang tyansa meron talagang tyansa,” Teodoro said regarding potential policy shifts under future administrations.
“The good thing that President Marcos did is institutionalize the mechanisms, especially in the Armed Forces of the Philippines so our programs for asserting our independence and strengthening ourselves can continue,” he added.
When asked if maritime defense should be a key issue in the upcoming 2028 national elections, Teodoro characterized the topic as vital, emphasizing that current choices will directly impact future generations.
“Napaka-importante nito,” Teodoro asserted, cautioning that any delay could derail progress as global security and technological threats rapidly change.
“It is important that this effort continues. If it is halted or derailed, the sacrifices that have been made would be wasted, and the gains we have achieved in strengthening our nation over a short period of time would be lost,” he stated.
Addressing speculations about his own political plans for the 2028 elections, the defense secretary remained noncommittal, stating he would evaluate his options when his tenure in government concludes.
“I think if it comes to a point, there will be a point where I’ll have to make a decision what to do,” Teodoro remarked.
“I’ll cross the bridge when I get there and I’ll weigh whatever is best for the situation I find myself in,” he explained. “If it is something I would like to do, it is something that I think I can do something, and if it’s something doable, that’s the most important thing.”
Teodoro concluded by emphasizing that the public’s resolve to defend national sovereignty remains the most critical issue facing the country today.
“Ang mas importanteng tanong, handa ba ang mamamayan na manindigan nang tunay para sa karapatan natin?,” Teodoro asked.