The Philippines has positioned itself as a convergence hub for like-minded countries committed to a rules-based maritime order, Defense Secretary Gilberto Eduardo C. Teodoro, Jr. said on Sunday, as he unveiled the country’s vision to be a guardian of the seas. Speaking at the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Mr. Teodoro outlined the nation’s strategic role in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region, according to BusinessWorld .
Teodoro emphasized that the Philippines seeks to be a dependable partner in upholding international law and freedom of navigation. He noted that the country's geographic location makes it a natural hub for dialogue and cooperation among Indo-Pacific nations. The defense chief also highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines to better address emerging security challenges.
The Shangri-La Dialogue, a premier Asia security summit, provided the platform for Teodoro to reaffirm the Philippines' commitment to a rules-based international order. He called for collective action to address common threats such as piracy, terrorism, and maritime disputes. His remarks come amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the region and the Philippines' ongoing efforts to assert its sovereign rights in the South China Sea.