The Philippines maintains an independent foreign policy by being a “friend to all” and “an enemy to none,” President Marcos said during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28.

The Chief Executive, who delivered his 70-minute state address at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, hailed the new alliances formed under his leadership, especially in addressing sovereignty challenges and protecting the country’s interests.

But Marcos stressed that the Philippines, despite being a responsible member of the international community that adheres to agreements and laws, has an independent foreign policy.

“Then as now, our foreign policy remains the same: the Philippines is a friend to all. The Philippines is an enemy to none. That will be our main focus as we host the ASEAN Summit in 2026,” he told an audience composed of lawmakers, cabinet members, diplomatic corps, and the media.

“Ngayon, masasabi natin na mataas ang tingin ng buong mundo sa Pilipinas. Maayos, patas, at mahinahon tayong nakikitungo sa iba't ibang mga bansa. Tumutupad din tayo sa ating mga kasunduan, at sa mga batas at panuntunan ng pandaigdigang komunidad (Now, we can say that the whole world looks up to the Philippines. We deal with other countries respectfully, fairly, and calmly. We also adhere to agreements, laws, and rules of the international community,” the President added.

While he did not mention China, Marcos stated that the Philippines will continue to be vigilant against the “new threats” to peace and sovereignty.

He stressed that the Philippines will remain “patient” in protecting and guarding the archipelago and its interests.

Meanwhile, Marcos also turned the spotlight on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), recognizing their contributions and expressing gratitude to sharing their talents and skills across the globe.

“Para sa ating mga Pilipino: malayo man, malapit din (For us Filipinos: they may be far, but they are still near),” he said, further committing to safeguard the lives and rights of Filipinos abroad.

Marcos also recalled the danger faced by Filipino seafarers who were held by the Houthi rebels, and were released after coordinating with the Oman government.

“For their crucial and most beneficent sovereign interventions, I personally convey our entire nation's sincerest gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, and to all the leaders of various countries that have granted clemency and shown kindness to our beleaguered compatriots,” he added.