MANILA, Philippines— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will never tolerate any act that disrespects its sovereignty, as he vowed to continue defending the country’s territories and maritime zones, including the West Philippine Sea.

“We stand firm. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect against our sovereignty,” Marcos said during the 127th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Navy.

Speaking before naval personnel in Subic, the Commander-in-Chief underscored the Philippines’ commitment to uphold its maritime entitlements under 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 said.

Marcos also reiterated the government’s preference for diplomacy and international cooperation, even as it remains resolute in asserting its sovereign rights.

“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.

He pointed to the Philippines’ participation in joint military drills such as Balikatan, Sama Sama, Rim of the Pacific, and Multilateral Naval Exercise Kakadu as evidence of its active role in maintaining regional security.

The country has also hosted talks with allies and led initiatives like 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.