MANILA – At the Philippine Bar Association’s (PBA) 132nd Foundation Day and Law Day celebration, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. made a compelling call to the nation’s legal experts to actively participate in defending the Philippines’ maritime claims, particularly concerning the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
According to Philippines News Agency, DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong relayed Secretary Teodoro’s message, emphasizing the critical role of legal professionals in international disputes. “Emphasizing the vital role of the legal community in defending the country’s maritime claims, especially in the WPS, Secretary Teodoro called for the development of a dedicated cadre of international public law advocates who can elevate the Philippines’ presence in international legal arenas,” Andolong stated.
In his keynote address, Secretary Teodoro underscored the importance of adhering to the rule of law amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. He posited a rhetorical question about the rule of law’s ability to prevail over forceful opposition, declaring, “Can the rule of law prevail over a bully? My answer is that it must. It must, because if a greater force prevails without any legal foundation, it becomes a bigger bully.”
Teodoro highlighted the necessity for the Philippines to forge a group of international law advocates recognized for their gravitas and credibility to effectively assert the nation’s maritime rights on global platforms. He elaborated on the strategic direction under the Marcos administration, which focuses on defense alliances and collective actions with allied nations to support the Philippines’ legal maritime claims.
Moreover, Secretary Teodoro advocated for substantial reforms in the laws governing national security, procurement, and government auditing to better meet the evolving demands of the defense sector. He stressed the need for updating the skills and regulations within the defense department to enhance operational capabilities.
Teodoro also called for the legal community’s backing for the implementing rules and regulations of the proposed Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) law, aiming to bolster the country’s defense autonomy. He passionately urged legal professionals to utilize their expertise to aid the government’s efforts in standing up against any encroachments on the nation’s sovereignty and dignity.
In conclusion, Secretary Teodoro highlighted the importance of the country’s Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) and the necessity to invest in modernizing defense capabilities, particularly in cyber defense and naval infrastructure, to ensure robust national security.