Manila: The Philippine government continues to chart its 'friend to all, enemy to none' foreign policy, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said while assuring the public that the country is resolute in protecting Filipino interest both within its territory and abroad.

According to Philippines News Agency, in his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, President Marcos emphasized that the country's foreign policy remains consistent and focused on maintaining friendly relations worldwide while avoiding enmity. He highlighted that the Philippines is committed to transparency and adherence to international law.

President Marcos noted that the global perception of the Philippines is favorable due to its fair and calm dealings with other nations and its commitment to international agreements and laws. The President also emphasized that Manila is steadfast in safeguarding its rights and enhancing its defense capabilities amidst challenges to its sovereignty, particularly in the South China Sea.

In his address, Marcos stated that despite new threats to peace and sovereignty, the Philippines is improving its readiness and self-defense measures, while continuing to exercise restraint and patience in protecting its interests across its archipelago.

The President further mentioned that the Philippines is strengthening its international partnerships to bolster its position and has greater confidence in these alliances during times of need. Under the Marcos administration, efforts have been intensified to deepen security relations with like-minded countries.

To reinforce the nation's sovereignty, President Marcos signed the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. These laws define the extent of the Philippines' maritime zones in compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, affirming the country's sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the West Philippine Sea.