Marcos Jr. reaffirms PH claim over West Philippine Sea

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines' claim over the West Philippine Sea (WPS), stating it is "ours" and not "a figment of imagination."

He cited two pending bills, the Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, to ensure the "intergenerational mandate" of defending the contested waters.

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go renewed his call for a firm yet peaceful and diplomatic approach in protecting the nation's sovereign rights in the WPS, echoing the President's pronouncements.

Go emphasized the importance of protecting the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos, stating "What is ours is ours."

Advocates for demilitarization and the fishers' group PAMALAKAYA expressed dismay, urging the president to outline a clear plan beyond declarations of ownership and to peacefully regain control of the WPS.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has committed to rallying behind President Marcos Jr.'s tough stance on asserting Manila's rights over the WPS, vowing to uphold its mission to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity.

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. affirmed the AFP's support for the President's strategy of a peaceful approach emphasizing a rules-based international order, de-escalation, and diplomatic means.

The AFP chief also thanked the President for his unwavering support for AFP modernization efforts and the push towards self-reliance.