I sat forward in my chair, listening to His Excellency Ferdinand Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, deliver the State of the Nation Address. I was filled with astonishment, surprise, and profound joy at every word. Having followed our nation’s journey for years, I found the vision presented that evening deeply moving.
After outlining numerous initiatives for the Philippines and his plans for our future, the President concluded his address by focusing on the values that unite us as a people and as a member of Southeast Asia. He spoke of how the *bayanihan* spirit strengthens the entire region. As ASEAN chair this year, we convened our neighbors to mitigate the impact of conflict in the Middle East, demonstrating that regional solidarity drives meaningful change. He emphasized that Asia serves as our safe harbor, where shared proximity fosters genuine affinity.
Together with ASEAN member states, we have established systems to protect and empower our nations: the ASEAN+3 Emergency Rice Reserve will guard against food shortages, while the Philippines-led ASEAN Digital Economy Framework will create opportunities for local tech sectors, fintech innovations, and small businesses. We have ratified agreements for joint energy stockpiling. With our power grids fully interconnected across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, we are prepared to contribute to the ASEAN Power Grid.
Fifteen years after its signing, we are formalizing the peace pact with the CBA-CPP-NPA. In the BARMM, preparations are underway for the first regular parliamentary election under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro—a testament to our commitment to healing and unity.
On the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award under UNCLOS, the President reaffirmed that this final, binding decision remains inviolable. He honored the Armed Forces, the Coast Guard, and the fisherfolk who risk their safety to uphold it.
“Though we may differ, we are one people—Filipino in spirit and blood,” he declared. “We will not be shaken by insults, nor will we submit to oppressors. We will complete our work for our children and our future, for we love our country and our people.”
Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! I fully support the President’s perspective regarding current developments in the Middle East, Asia, and the Philippines. To the Philippine government, the Filipino people, and the President: Mabuhay!
