by NILLICENT BAUTISTA
IN HIS first State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. asserted that he would not be supportive of measures that would relinquish any Philippine territory to other foreign entities.
While making no mention of the tensions with China in the West Philippine Sea, Marcos Jr. gained applause by promising to never let any “inch” of territory to another nation.
“In the area of foreign policy, I will not preside over any process that will abandon even one square inch of territory of the Republic of the Philippines to any foreign power,” Marcos Jr. said
“We will stand firm in our independent policy with national interests as our primordial guide,” he added.
Marcos Jr. emphasized that the country will remain committed to maintaining good relations with the rest of the world.
“With respect to our place in the community of Nations, the Philippines shall continue to be a friend to all, an enemy to none,” he said.
Moreover, Marcos highlighted the importance of strong bonds and collaboration with other nations.
“The partnerships and alliances that we make with all will provide stability that all nations will need as we emerge in this new global economy,” he said.
“The Philippines will continue to build stronger and multifaceted relationships with all our partners around the world,” he added.
Marcos Jr. also said before that he wished to “increase the scope” of ties with China beyond the sea dispute.
A Senate resolution was filed last July 21, urging Marcos Jr. to “revive” bilateral talks with China regarding the oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea. F
