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DND chief cites need for stronger defense posture vs. WPS threats

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno
March 24, 2025, 5:34 pm

MANILA -- Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Monday cited the need for a stronger defense posture and proactive measures against threats in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, in a news release, said Teodoro made the remark in his speech at the 49th founding anniversary of the Puerto Princesa, Palawan-based Western Command (Wescom).

"Representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Secretary Teodoro conveyed the Commander-in-Chief's appreciation for Wescom's unwavering efforts in securing the WPS," Andolong said.

During the event, Teodoro cited the need for enhanced regional engagements and commended Wescom's steadfast commitment to its mandate amid growing geopolitical challenges.

The DND chief stressed that a united front comprising the military, government, and Filipino people is crucial in defending the nation's sovereign rights and maritime interests.

He added the need for internal security operations to evolve in response to emerging threats posed by external actors seeking to undermine the Philippines' territorial integrity and maritime claims.

"Much as they (Chinese Communist Party) would like to claim, no ASEAN country accepts the legitimacy of that 10-dash line, because that is the biggest fiction and lie that can be sold to any right-thinking person," the DND chief noted.

Reaffirming the Philippines' commitment to strengthening international partnerships, Teodoro cited recent high-level engagements with Japan, the United States, and ASEAN partners, emphasizing a shared interest in upholding a rules-based international order. (PNA)