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Marcos: PH to stay calm but firm in defending WPS

Philippine News Agency

By Darryl John Esguerra
October 29, 2025, 10:21 am

MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines' resolve to defend its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) "firmly but calmly," amid renewed tensions with China over disputed waters.

"I reaffirmed 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," Marcos said in his arrival statement early Wednesday after attending the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

Marcos also emphasized strengthening ties with "like-minded nations" to advance regional stability and economic cooperation.

"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.

ASEAN leaders also tackled the political crisis in Myanmar, with Marcos reiterating the bloc's support for the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus "to bring about a peaceful and lasting solution."

During the Summit, Marcos repeatedly raised the tensions and coercive actions in the WPS, urging his fellow leaders to step up maritime cooperation.

Marcos officially received the Philippines' chairship of the 2026 ASEAN Summit.

The President, in his acceptance speech before ASEAN leaders, vowed to steer the bloc toward a "stable and secure" regional order.

He said Manila's leadership would prioritize peace, security and cooperation under the theme "Navigating Our Future, Together."

"Our Chairship arrives at a defining moment for ASEAN, one marked by both promise and complexity," Marcos said.

"Though the tides of change may be unpredictable, our compass must remain constant, anchored in cooperation."

He said the Philippines would "continue to champion peace and stability through dialogue, adherence to international law, and enhanced cooperation on traditional and non-traditional security issues," reiterating ASEAN's commitment to an open and rules-based regional architecture. (PNA)