DEFENSE SECRETARY TEODORO: WEST PHILIPPINE SEA DEFENSE IS A FIGHT FOR FILIPINO YOUTH’S FUTURE

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental – Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the Philippines’ fight to protect its maritime rights is also a fight to secure the future of Filipino youth, as he highlighted the importance of the West Philippine Sea during Misamis Occidental’s 97th provincial anniversary on Wednesday, November 4.

Teodoro said defending the country’s 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) is essential to protecting resources that future generations of Filipinos should be able to benefit from.

“Kaya ipinaglalaban natin ang 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone natin sa West Philippine Sea para sa kinabukasan ninyo,” Teodoro told provincial officials and residents.

The defense chief emphasized that the country’s maritime rights go beyond territorial claims, with direct implications for the livelihood of Filipinos and the nation's long-term economic prospects.

The West Philippine Sea is an important source of marine resources, particularly for fishing communities whose livelihoods depend on access to Philippine waters.

Teodoro’s remarks placed the country’s maritime defense efforts in the context of intergenerational responsibility, stressing that protecting these resources today helps preserve opportunities for young Filipinos tomorrow.

He delivered the message during the province’s 97th anniversary celebration in Oroquieta City, where officials and residents gathered to mark the milestone.