President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared on June 9, 2026, that the Philippines 'will never be intimidated' in protecting its sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea. Speaking at a naval event in Manila, Marcos emphasized the country's commitment to upholding international law and defending its maritime claims without resorting to aggression.
The statement comes amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, where the Philippines has faced repeated incidents with Chinese vessels near disputed features like Second Thomas Shoal. Marcos reiterated that the Philippines would continue to assert its rights under the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling, which invalidated China's expansive claims.
Defense officials confirmed that the Philippine Navy remains on high alert, with increased patrols and cooperation with international partners. Marcos called for peaceful resolution of disputes but warned that the Philippines would not back down from defending its territory.
