(June 21, 2025) – President Bongbong Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s firm stance in defending the country’s sovereignty in the disputed West Philippine Sea, underscoring that the policy should continue beyond his term.
Marcos noted his approach centers on upholding the nation’s territory and protecting Filipino fisherfolk from foreign aggression.
“We did not yield. We continue to protect the sovereignty of the republic, to defend the territory of the republic and we continue to protect and defend the people of the republic,” said Marcos in an interview with News5 and One PH anchor Cheryl Cosim in BBM Podcast Episode 2.
The president stressed that while the Philippines seeks to avoid conflict, it will not tolerate acts of harassment, especially toward Filipino fishermen.
“Hindi naman tayo nakikipag-away,” added Marcos. “Pero huwag ninyong [China] binabangga ‘yung mga mangingisda, hindi ba? Huwag ninyong kaming hinaharang doon sa teritoryo namin.”
He warned against any concessions in Philippine waters, saying yielding even “one inch” could encourage further encroachment.
“Kung ibigay mo ‘yan [territory], bibigay mo ng like they say, ‘you give them an inch,’ they’ll take a mile,” he said.
The remarks of Marcos came after Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Cmdr. Jay Tarriela urged Filipino voters earlier this month to choose leaders who will uphold Marcos’ stance in the maritime dispute.
Since Marcos assumed the presidency, the Philippine government has consistently invoked the landmark ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in 2016 against Chinese incursions within its exclusive economic zone.
ALSO READ: Philippines to abide by international law amid maritime row, stresses Marcos
Nearly 200 diplomatic protests have been filed before the Chinese embassy under Marcos’ watch.
The PCA decision invalidated China’s expansive maritime claims based on its so-called nine-dash line.
However, China simply dismissed the ruling and incessantly bullied Philippine vessels, including using water cannons, ramming, and shadowing.
(BR)
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