Manila, June 12 (AseanAll)  — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on June 12, 2025 reaffirmed the Philippines’ independent foreign policy that aligns with national priorities and promotes international cooperation,according to the Presidential Communications Office of the Philippines.

Speaking before foreign dignitaries and government officials on the occasion of the 127th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence, Marcos said the country’s foreign policy is shaped by its development agenda and guided by principles of sovereignty, peace, and mutual respect.

“Our independent foreign policy is informed by our development goals and reflects our national priorities. Ours is a proactive policy that is true to ourselves and responsive to the needs and aspirations of our people,” Marcos said, addressing the diplomatic corps during the traditional Vin d’Honneur at Malacañan Palace.

“Our engagements with the world are geared towards building peace and cooperation, and to fostering enduring partnerships. We build bridges not walls. We forge alliances that are based on mutual respect, reciprocity and shared goals,” the President added.

The President emphasized that pursuing an independent foreign policy is not merely constitutional but a deliberate strategy to ensure that the Philippines engages with the world on its own terms, collaborating with nations that share common values and aspirations.

Defense of sovereignty, territorial integrity

In his toast remarks delivered during the Vin d’Honneur reception, Marcos honored the courage of the Filipino people as he reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to defend national sovereignty while promoting international cooperation.

The President said the same courage shown during the nation’s fight for independence must be summoned again to face modern challenges confronting the country and the world, from territorial integrity to global uncertainty.

“With the indomitable spirit and resilience of the Filipino people, we have kept the torch of hard-won freedom lit and ablaze to this very day and have unremittingly defended our sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of all adversities,” Marcos said.