Manila: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday reiterated the agency's commitment to protecting Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). "As we observe this year's MANA Mo, the DND stands with our people in protecting our patrimony. In the face of attempts to undermine our sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in the WPS, we remain resolute in our stand against coercion and manipulation," he said in his message for the observance of the "Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month" (MANA Mo) 2025 this September.

According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro emphasized the importance of unity among Filipinos in defending the nation's rich maritime territories to preserve the country's archipelagic way of life. He urged the nation to be united in defending the Filipino way of life, proud of their heritage as an archipelagic nation, and determined to secure their maritime domain for future generations.

He highlighted that the richness of the Philippines' archipelagic terrain and the expanse of its ocean spaces are integral parts of the national identity. Proclamation No. 316, issued in 2017, declares September as "Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month" or MANA Mo. This proclamation aligns with Article XII, Section 2 of the Constitution, which mandates the State to protect the nation's marine wealth in its archipelagic waters, territorial sea, and exclusive economic zone, reserving its use exclusively for Filipino citizens.