Good job! Marcos' efforts key in gaining Czech Republic's support, says Romualdez
At A Glance
- House Speaker Martin Romualdez commended the efforts of President Marcos after the Czech Republic expressed its support to the Philippines amid the ongoing dispute in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) against China.

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Czech President Petr Pavel (Yummie Dingding/PPA Pool)
House Speaker Martin Romualdez commended the efforts of President Marcos after the Czech Republic expressed its support to the Philippines amid the ongoing dispute in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) against China.
“The exceptional diplomatic efforts of President Marcos paid off with the expression of full support of President Pavel to the stance of the Philippines in defense of our right and sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea,” said Romualdez.
In a bilateral meeting with President Marcos on Thursday, March 14, Czech President Petr Pavel backed the call of the Philippines, particularly in respecting rules-based order and ensuring free and open navigation in the area.
The Czech Republic was among the 16 European countries that asserted the Philippines’ claim in its territories located in the WPS as established by the Permanent Court of Arbitration's (PCA) 2016 Arbitral Ruling.
“Support from countries like the Czech Republic significantly reinforces the Philippine position and amplifies the international voice dismissing China’s sweeping claims over the area,” noted Romualdez. “It could also help promote a rules-based approach to resolving maritime disputes by international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).”
Romualdez, who is a member of the official delegation of President Marcos in his four-day state visit to the Central European country, said the two leaders also discussed further cooperation in defense and cybersecurity.
“Such cooperation can bolster the Philippines' defense capabilities, enhance maritime security in the region, and contribute to deterring potential threats to our sovereignty and territorial integrity in the West Philippine Sea,” he said.
The House leader explained that Czech defense companies can help the Philippine military improve its archipelagic defense capabilities through the acquisition of more ships, aircraft, and radar systems.
On Thursday, President Marcos expressed confidence over increased trade and investments coming from the Czech Republic.