Marcos tells PCG: Embracing dialogue is 'true essence of strength'

As tensions continued to simmer over China's aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. underscored to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) that embracing dialogue is the true essence of strength.

Speaking at the PCG's 123rd founding anniversary rites, Marcos said its personnel have been "vigilant stewards of peace and order upon our seas, ensuring that the rule of law prevails across our waters."

"In the face of tension, it is your calm resolve that prevents disputes from turning into conflicts, demonstrating to the world that embracing dialogue and cooperation is the true essence of strength," Marcos said in his speech.

"This is manifested as well by our awardees to whom I express my gratitude and my deepest congratulations," he added.

Marcos said words and awards are always never quite enough to express his appreciation for their unwavering commitment and tireless service to the country.

"This Administration reaffirms its support to efforts that will improve your fleet and our air assets as well, to maritime domain awareness, weapons capability, and necessary infrastructure development," Marcos said.

Marcos told PCG personnel that their emergence as key players in the country's maritime security ''reflects your commitment to service and exemplifies how to advance while remaining true to your core mission.''

''You protect our maritime borders, standing resolute in the face of those who would exploit our resources or threaten our way of life,'' Marcos said.

''Rescuing our fishermen on the sea when typhoons strike and ensuring that our seas are not pillaged by illegal poachers, you are the steady hand that keeps us upright,'' he added.

More complex challenges

The challenges being faced by the PCG have been growing more complex, according to the Chief Executive, ranging from climate change, rising sea levels, and geopolitical tensions.

''Patrolling a coastline that spans over 37 million kilometers and watching over our Exclusive Economic Zone is no small feat,'' Marcos said.

''But to do this with the added weight of isolation, the dangers of unpredictable seas, and the constant pressure of protecting our resources—then it becomes more than just a job. It is a responsibility that speaks to the core of what it means to serve this country,'' he added.

PCG personnel have been at the forefront of incidents between Philippine and Chinese forces in the West Philippine Sea.

Chinese ships have repeatedly rammed, threatened, and water cannoned PCG vessels especially in recent years, including the BRP Teresa Magbanua after it was deployed for about five months at Escoda Shoal.

BRP Teresa Magbanua, the largest vessel of the PCG's fleet, was pulled out from Escoda Shoal due to its questionable seaworthiness, lack of supplies for the crew, and the bad weather condition, according to the PCG.

It was stationed in Escoda Shoal last April amid reports of China's reclamation activities in the area.

China has a massive claim in the South China Sea (SCS), including the portion the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea.

The SCS is a conduit for more than $3 trillion in annual ship commerce. Aside from the Philippines, China has overlapping claims in the area with Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei.

In 2016, an international arbitration tribunal in Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines over China's claims in the South China Sea, saying that it had "no legal basis."

China has not recognized the decision. — VDV, GMA Integrated News