During the fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday, not a single word was uttered regarding the issue of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stated in their Press Briefing on Tuesday that, although the President did not mention the military modernization, they remain committed to their duties as the commander-in-chief had instructed them before the SONA.
“Nag conduct naman kami ng command conference, and the guidance of the president is very clear for the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” AFP Spokesperson Col. Frances Padilla said
In his SONA speech, Marcos emphasized the need for the country to be prepared and to strengthen self-defense in light of new threats to sovereignty.
“Sa harap ng mga bagong banta sa ating kapayapaan at soberanya, mas maigting ngayon ang ating paghahanda, pagmamatyag, at pagtatanggol sa ating sarili.” Marcos said.
Marcos also urged everyone to remain calm and composed while securing the Philippine islands.
“Gayumpaman, tayo pa rin ay nagtitimpi at nananatiling mapagpasensya, lalo na sa pagtanod sa ating buong kapuluan at sa pangangalaga sa ating interes.” he added.
Meanwhile, AFP Spokesperson on the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad expressed the military's readiness to make sacrifices in response to any aggressive actions by China.
