President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to peace despite ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. He made this declaration during Saturday’s 80th Anniversary Commemoration of the Liberation of Manila.
In his keynote address, President Marcos emphasized that the country has learned valuable lessons from its war-torn past and remains dedicated to resolving conflicts peacefully without compromising its sovereignty.
“The Philippines, deeply familiar with the atrocities brought about by war between and among nations, has always chosen the path of peace, and I can assure all of you that we will continue to do so,” he stated.
The President underscored that while the country upholds peace, it will not waver in defending its national interests. “The Philippines will always make a stand and will always stand for what is right,” he affirmed.
Through diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation, President Marcos noted that the Philippines has contributed to maintaining a stable and prosperous region. “We have and will continue to work with partners and the international community in building bridges, forging solutions, and preserving our global commons,” he added.
Honoring the Heroes of Liberation
President Marcos also paid tribute to the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers who fought for the nation’s freedom and democracy during World War II.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, I wish to recognize the veterans present here today and their families. We are privileged to not have to see what you had seen, to not have ingrained in our memories what you had to go through. May we continue to deserve to live and thrive in this world that you have built for us,” he expressed.
He extended his gratitude to the U.S. Embassy for bringing together American veterans who played a role in liberating Manila from Japanese forces and for organizing the commemorative event.
Strengthening Philippine-U.S. Relations
Highlighting the enduring alliance between the Philippines and the United States, President Marcos stated that both nations remain committed to shared values such as peace, democracy, fairness, social progress, and justice.
“In peace and war, through natural disasters and pandemics, our relations with the United States remain firmly anchored on these cherished principles,” he said.
He further emphasized that the partnership is instrumental in ensuring national security, economic prosperity, and the protection of human rights in the Indo-Pacific region.
“We are gratified by our enduring alliance, partnership, and friendship with the U.S., especially as we work together toward advancing peace and prosperity in the region,” he concluded.
A Distinguished Gathering
The commemorative event took place at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in McKinley, Taguig City. It was attended by high-ranking officials, including U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, American Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown, members of the Diplomatic Corps, American Battle Monument Commission Secretary Charles Djou, and United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo.
Cabinet members led by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo and Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. were also present at the ceremony.
