The Philippines remains committed to peace despite tensions in the South China Sea, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed during the 80th Anniversary of Manila’s Liberation on Saturday.

In his keynote address, Marcos Jr. emphasized that the country has learned from the past and resolves conflicts peacefully without making concessions.

“The Philippines, deeply familiar with the atrocities brought about by war between and among nations, has always chosen the path of peace, and I can assure all of you that we will continue to do so,” the President said.

“The Philippines will always make a stand and will always stand for what is right,” he added.

Marcos highlighted diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation as key to maintaining regional stability and prosperity.  “We have and will continue to work with partners and the international community in building bridges, forging solutions, preserving our global commons,” according to him.

Marcos Jr. aslo urged Filipinos to honor those who fought for the nation’s freedom. 

“On behalf of a grateful nation, I wish to recognize the veterans present here today and their families. We are privileged to not have to see what you had seen, to not have ingrained in our memories what you had to go through. May we continue to deserve living and thriving in this world that you have built for us,” the Chief Executive told the gathering.

He also thanked the US Embassy for bringing together American veterans who helped liberate Manila from Japanese forces. He underscored the enduring Philippines-US alliance, rooted in shared values of peace, democracy, and justice.

“Our two nations are committed to the preservation and enhancement of national security, the attainment of economic prosperity, and the promotion of the rights and wellbeing of our peoples.”

The event, held at the American Cemetery in Taguig City, was attended by US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown, diplomats, and senior officials, including Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.IMT