In leading the commissioning of two naval assets, President Marcos reaffirmed that the Philippines will never tolerate any disrespect and told the Philippine Navy that the country will never surrender anything.

"We stand firm. We will never tolerate any act of disrespect against our sovereignty," Marcos said in his speech during the 127th anniversary of the Philippine Navy on Tuesday, May 20, held in Subic, Zambales.

"We will continue to safeguard our maritime zones and exercise our maritime entitlements, in accordance with international law," he added.

"Wala tayong isusuko, wala tayong papabayaan (We will not surrender anything, we will not neglect anyone)," the President went on.

While Marcos talked anew about protecting the country's maritime territory, he also reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to being a responsible member of the international community.

He maintained that the country will continue to engage in all matters diplomatically and uphold the established principles under international law.

The President cited that his administration continues to actively participate in various exercises such as the Balikatan, Sama Sama, Rim of the Pacific, and Multilateral Naval Exercise Kakadu.

He likewise mentioned the staff-to-staff talks with other nations and hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) Defense Ministers Meeting Experts’ Working Group on Maritime Security.

"All of these are aligned with our broader efforts to foster cooperation and to maintain peace—both within our borders and across the region," he said.

During the Navy's anniversary, Marcos led the christening rites and commissioning ceremony for two naval assets— the newly acquired patrol gunboat (PG909) and guided-missile frigate (FFG06).

The Commander-in-Chief said the commissioning of the two naval assets is part of the country's strategy to bolster its national defense.

"What we witnessed during the Commissioning Ceremony of the Navy’s two newly acquired vessels, the BRP Miguel Malvar and the BRP Albert Majini, is a Philippine Navy that is modernizing, that is evolving, and is ready to conduct more complex and effective operations in promoting the country’s national interest," he said.

Marcos said his administration remains resolute in its agenda to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Through the AFP Modernization Program, he said they are investing in responsive and up-to-date assets and systems to ensure that the Navy remains a formidable force in the region.

He also acknowledged that more than just acquiring new equipment, the modernization effort is also about empowering the Philippine Navy with the necessary skills, knowledge, tools, and sustainment that would safeguard our nation’s interest.

"This includes the expansion of our footprint in critical areas, beginning with the groundbreaking at Naval Station Nabasan, and continuing with Chiquita and Grande Islands. We are also establishing the Naval Support Base in Misamis Oriental so that Sangley Point can be devoted to other uses," he said.

"These efforts form part of our strategy to bolster our national defense," he noted.

Marcos recognized the contributions and dedication of the Philippine Navy, especially in the recently conducted mid-term elections.

"More than 1,800 personnel were deployed in the 2025 Elections. And they played a key role in ensuring its safe and orderly conduct, particularly in vulnerable areas of the country," he said.

He also said that their dedication is evident in their readiness to respond to every crisis—natural or man-made.

"So, despite rough seas, existing dangers, the psychological toll, you serve—not simply out of duty for the Republic, but because that is innately who you are: you are guardians of our people," Marcos said.

"In every mission, the Navy proves that maritime strength is measured by the character, clarity of mission, and the commitment of those who serve. That same commitment to duty was clearly seen in the West Philippine Sea and in other maritime outposts," he added.

"The Navy personnel serve as peacekeepers both in land and in sea—remaining as steadfast as ever in upholding our nation’s maritime entitlements with dignity and with courage," he went on.